1. How to share your story.

Most likely, with in the first week of being on summer staff or work crew someone will ask you, "So what's your testimony?" or "So when did you start following Jesus?"

2. How to lift things you never thought you would.

Like 50 pounds of graduated sugar, or what felt like 50 pounds of dirty tablecloths to take to the twashies.

3. How to really get to know a person.

Nothing quite bonds you to people like getting up every day before eight, working hard the entire day, and then not getting to go to bed until late that night...for a whole month. Not only are you eating, working with these people, you also live with them.

4. What genuine affirmation is.

Your friends you meet at Young Life camp are like walking, talking encouragement notes. In frustration, in sadness, in times of happiness, they are always there to offer words of kindness and love to keep you going.

5. A month is not as long as you think.

Shortest month of your life? Hands down.

6. Goodbyes really suck.

Especially when your friends are from all over the country.

7. GroupMe is your new best friend.

And that thing will send you a notification 50 times a day, and when it does, you will smile.

8. True joy.

Joy that only comes from knowing, loving, and serving Christ.