Last week, I took a short personal journey that followed a familiar path only recently reclaimed by the mindful stewards of tradition at Camp Mitchell. It leads to an enchanted clearing in the woods, carpeted with lichen and moss, shaded by a canopy of tree leaves and pine needles. And there sits the stone altar. I’ve always felt closest to the gentle freedom of self-determination amongst the natural creation of wood and water, rocks and rivers, sand and sunshine; when my body is enveloped by its environment. These are holy places for me...
Decades have weathered the altar, now more rustic than ever, and I understand it will soon be refurbished for new generations. I’m pleased that my feet won’t be alone on that path, that this special place will continue to provide rest and respite for weary souls like mine. “Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our communities and among the nations...”  Many of you may be wondering about all of the social media posts featuring pictures of mountains and trees, chapels and crosses. One of my dearest and most “tenured” friends invited me to help her direct the junior high session at Camp Mitchell this year, the very same session where we met 35 years ago. It sits atop Petit Jean Mountain in central Arkansas and is imbued with a spirit that moves beyond the lovely views and serenity of a state park. I’d call it the essence of real community, true inclusivity, genuine kindness and compassion. No matter your spiritual practice, you can’t help but be swept up in the singing, the laughter, the playfulness, the prayerfulness, and the readiness to make every joyful (loud) noise! And you can’t help but be transformed...
We used superheroes to illustrate the passage from Micah 6:8, “to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” And so we discussed justice, mercy, and humility, along with fear, power, and the responsible use of privilege. How beautiful to see the reception, the recognition on the kids’ faces when they embraced and employed those concepts! Admittedly, it was a lot of work... But honestly, I had as much fun as I did when I was a camper, perhaps a little more. And I got to spend a week on the mountain with incredible people, old friends and new. Although tired, I feel refreshed, renewed, and somehow lighter. I had a chance to feel into familiar traditions that comforted me, and new ideas that will propel me forward. Open eyes, open mind, open heart. Without thought or intention, I stripped down to my marrow, laid down years of painful events, adult navigation, and all of my coping/defense mechanisms. I uncovered and recovered parts of my self I had lost or forgotten. It feels good... |
