As school comes to a close in May and the fresh start of summer overtakes us, we are all presented with numerous opportunities. Some of us take on summer jobs or continue to take classes, some of us take the summer off completely and spend it traveling or staying in the comfort of home. Some of us do a little of everything. This summer I chose to spend my time at Camp Cho-yeh, a summer camp in Texas that brings in kids from all over to experience the love and joy of Jesus Christ. It was my first year working at this camp and it was an incredible ride. As I am approaching my least week here I have been reflecting on some of my experiences. It has been a summer full of ups and downs, learning about myself and those around me and growing in ways I could never have foreseen. I was a camp counselor to a group of amazing girls. Girls that I am so proud of and so blessed to have met. Here are a few words I want to express to these awesome people.

To my campers,

It's amazing how fast this summer has blown by. Two months ago I was sitting in a room getting trained on how to be the best counselor for you, and now the summer is making its last hoorah. Two months ago I started praying for you, even though I didn't even know your name. Two months ago I started loving you even though I had never met you, or seen your face. Two months ago I didn't realize what I had signed up for, but now I do. I understand that I signed up for a job that was so rewarding, so difficult, and so worth it. I do not understand that you have been the biggest blessings of my life. You taught me how to be a better me. You showed me how beautiful a soul can really be.

So I want to thank you.

Thank you for pushing me to be a better me.
Thank you for sharing your life with me.
Thank you for all the giggles, and adventures.
Thank you for loving me even when I was unlovable.
Thank you for making my eyes wide, and my heart soft.

You are the bravest people I have ever met, and your stories are the greatest ones that have yet to be told. Never forget the potential that is in. Dream big, and love hard. Never let the world make you hard, and stay true to who you have created it be. Life is going to be hard, but I've watched you this summer, and I know that you are stronger than the trials life has to throw at you.

Always remember that you are loved not only by me but also by a God who sent his son to die for you. Never forget that the same God who created the stars was the same God who created you. You all have been fearfully and wonderfully made. You are worthy of love.

Never forget the beauty that is within you. Never forget you are worth everything.

Much love and prayers.