On Friday evening, a chilly walk from the train station ended with a warm surprise. Waiting in the small lobby of my apartment building was a package emblazoned with a royal blue sticker reading PROJECT REPAT. My t-shirt quilt had arrived!
As I flipped the square of squares into the air and spread it flat on my bed, I realized that together, the 16 panels adequately represented the past five years of my life.
I gave each panel it's due attention, justifying again why it was worth including in the quilt.
One panel caught my eye. It says 'I'm a camper for life.' This one I reflected on a bit longer...
What does it mean to be a camper? Why would you want to be one for life?
Campers keep it simple. A celebration: people, stories, songs. A confidence boost: hi-5s, a pat on the back.
Campers are good at unplugging. What's better than tea with a friend?!
Campers take risks. Campers identify their limits and then stretch their capacities; and constantly reassess their limits as they grow.
Campers appreciate differences. Having an open mind means seeing the wonderful sum of these uniquities.
Campers understand and believe in human connection. Campers look for a common interest or fact or emotion--a foundation on which to build a relationship.
Campers are welcoming and inclusive of everybody. Campers smile, knowing the power of that initiation. Campers always extend the invitation--an opportunity for human connection.
Campers love circles. Circles represent commitment and allow for seeing everyone's face--inclusion.
Campers are always game for an adventure, whether it is climbing a rock wall, a mountain or a bunk bed ladder.
Campers are comfortable in their own skin. Campers know their value and share it enthusiastically.
Campers bring out the best in others. Campers notice when others are comfortable (or uncomfortable) and encourage accordingly.
Campers are always learning. Campers do not have all the answers--and understand that no one does. Campers are eager to learn from people, places, and experiences.
Campers have hope--in themselves, in the people they meet, and in the world.
Campers are not solely children or those who may sleep in tents. Campers are people who see a world of extraordinary humans and want to connect with it.
I'm still striving to be a camper.
Maybe my t-shirt should read 'I want to be a camper for life.'
No comments:
Post a Comment