Things I've Learned.

Since beginning my year-round job at Camp a year-and-a-half ago, I have learned a TON about the Christian camping ministry. But I realized recently that I've also learned a lot about myself and life in general. I'd like to share a few of those things... if you don't mind :-)

-- I've learned that working hard and getting paid for it is rewarding... but working hard and then seeing positive fruit of your work is even so much more rewarding.

-- I've learned that interstates are not quite as confusing and terrifying as I once thought them to be.

-- I've learned that I really can't please everyone. There are some people who just don't like me (and some people I don't like!!) and that's okay. I'm learning to accept that.

-- I've learned that in every ministry project/outreach, there is SO MUCH detail work done behind the scenes, that most people don't even think about.

-- I've learned that "behind the scenes" is where God often likes to put me, to teach me humility. Because I often want my hard work to be noticed... but I'm learning that God sees it and that's enough.

-- I've learned that no matter how much you enjoy your job and the people you work with, the weekend (or a day off) still causes great rejoicing.

-- I've learned that 5:30am makes me angry. I'm normally just fine with mornings, and am one of the few camp staff who actually enjoys doing breakfast assembly in the summer. But getting up at 5:30am makes me kind of hate the world.

-- I've learned that saying a positive word to someone, even something as simple as "you're doing a great job," can be a blessing to both sides. Making the effort to brighten someone's day brightens mine.

-- I've learned that I actually can live on my own and not be drowning in loneliness all the time (although it does happen on occasion).

-- I've learned that life and circumstances aren't always fair. But I'm learning that I need to be a giver, and have a submissive, serving heart.

-- I've learned that telephones and microphones are not so terribly frightening...most of the time...

-- I've learned that I am stronger (physically and emotionally) than I thought I was... and yet it's not my strength. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

These are just a few of the life lessons I've learned at Camp since last October. Can I say "everything I know about life I learned from working at camp"? Well, maybe not. But definitely some important lessons and growth.