Trying It Out
Nathan Bruchman (left) and a team of Summer 2021 Staff gather for a campfire
Nathan Bruchman wasn’t sure what he was going to do for the summer. All of his siblings had attended summer camp at Fortune Lake, so working at camp seemed like something to try.
Nathan described himself as pretty quiet and not very outgoing. He didn’t venture to try new things very often. However, when he arrived at camp, he found a community waiting with open arms to help him break out of his shell. Everyone on staff was kind and supportive, and he never felt part of an “out group”.
Nearly halfway into the summer, Nathan was feeling like he didn’t really know what he was doing. His confidence needed a boost. At an end-of-week staff meeting, a fellow counselor shared a story about Nathan’s campers that opened his eyes. The staffer had overheard a cabin conversation about how cool Nathan’s campers thought he was, and how impressed they were with his wheelie abilities in his wheelchair. This reminded Nathan that campers look up to staffers and may be affected by “stuff,” even when one isn’t aware of it.
Reflecting on his summer as a FLLC counselor, Nathan thinks the lesson that has stuck with him most is trying new things is worth the experience. Though it may not work out exactly the way you’re hoping, there is value in it nonetheless. He is grateful for both the experience of being a leader and having the opportunity to impact those who were campers. He is thankful for all of the new friendships and connections he established while at camp.
Fortune Lake provides a space where the Holy Spirit can act through community. People are encouraged to get out of their comfort zones, create new relationships, and be appreciated for who they are. We meet God in a multitude of ways through this ministry, where we all get to try something new. Thinking about trying a summer on Fortune Lake’s Staff like Nathan did? Email campdirector@fortunelake.org to inquire, or visit the Employment section of our webpage for more information.
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