I have never been the most patient girl. I had always wanted what I want when I want it, and waiting would just not do. I grew up not really needing to share toys, so I have never had the problem of being patient with children, until I became a camp counselor.

This summer I was hired to work at Camp Waldemar for girls in Hunt, Texas. I have been working with girls from age 6 all the way through 16 and I can say this has definitely been one of the most difficult experiences I have encountered.

I am a horseback riding teacher here at Waldemar and teach up to 80 girls in a day - plus my cabin of eight eighth graders that I spend the rest of my time with. I had no idea what to expect when I got here, but now I truly know what it is like to be a teacher. I never expected to have to repeat myself every five minutes, have my authority defied, have children climb all over me and my stuff or have them take my stuff without asking.

This camp has tested me more than anything I’ve done, but has also been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. At the beginning of this term, the director told us to come up with a goal after five weeks of being a counselor with these kids. My goal was to become more patient and understanding with my children and myself. After yelling, crying and smiling, I can say that these girls have truly softened my heart and taught me the true meaning of being patient. I don’t mind repeating myself because I know these girls will benefit from it. I don’t mind walking out of my cabin and having my girls jump all over me and my stuff. I don’t mind coming back and seeing my campers in my bed with my blanket and coloring in my coloring book. All of these actions bring a smile to my face now and a warmth to my heart. I am truly grateful for the girls that God has brought into my life this summer.