In times of uncertainty, when the world feels divided and heavy, it’s easy to get caught up in the turmoil. The past few weeks and months have brought challenges for so many—uncertainty, stress, and a sense of division that can make us feel disconnected from one another. Like many others, I have been engrossed in the lightning-speed changes happening around us, questioning how I can help more. But in the midst of it all, I remind myself of something deeply important: as a parent and a camp director, I have a responsibility to the next generation. One that I take seriously.
At Camp Rippling Brook, we believe in fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, supported, and valued. A few of our core values—positivity, open-mindedness, respect, and kindness—are more important than ever. These values don’t just guide us during the summer months; they serve as a foundation for how we move through life, especially in uncertain times.
Positivity: Finding Light in Difficult Moments
It’s easy to dwell on negativity, but camp teaches us that even in the toughest situations, there is always room for joy. A rainy day at camp might mean canceling a hike, but it also opens the door for an impromptu game or a dance party. Life is full of unexpected twists, but how we respond matters. Choosing positivity doesn’t mean ignoring challenges—it means facing them with hope and resilience.
Open-Mindedness: Embracing Different Perspectives
At camp, we bring together kids from all different backgrounds, each with their own stories and experiences. They learn to listen, to understand, and to work together. The world outside of camp is no different. We don’t all have to agree, but we do need to be willing to listen to one another with an open heart. When we approach people with curiosity instead of judgment, we create space for understanding and connection.
Respect: Building Bridges, Not Walls
Respect is about more than just being polite—it’s about recognizing the value in every person we meet. At camp, respect is woven into everything we do, from how we treat our friends to how we care for our surroundings. In a time when tensions can run high, leading with respect reminds us that every person deserves to be heard, seen, and treated with dignity.
Kindness: The Smallest Actions Make the Biggest Impact
Sometimes, the smallest act of kindness can turn someone’s entire day around. A high five after a game, a helping hand at the lunch table, or simply a smile—these moments add up. The world needs more of them. Camp reminds us that kindness isn’t just a nice idea—it’s an action we take every day to make our community stronger.
Carrying Camp Values Into Everyday Life
The lessons we learn at camp don’t stay at camp—they follow us home, into our schools, workplaces, and communities. Now, more than ever, we need to embody those values. We need to be the people who lift others up, who choose to see the good, and who work to create a world where everyone feels like they belong.
As I reflect on the role I play in shaping the next generation, I realize that the most important thing I can do is continue to model these values—not just at camp, but in my daily life. Our campers are watching. They see how we handle challenges, how we treat others, and how we navigate difficult times. If we want a future built on empathy, understanding, and unity, we must start by showing our kids what that looks like today.
No matter what the world throws our way, I will continue to lead with positivity, open-mindedness, respect, and kindness. Because if we can create an environment where these values thrive, then we are already shaping a brighter future. And that is something worth working toward—together.
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