A letter to camp counselors.

"Who will care when I'm not there?" It's every parent's question when they leave their children in the hands of strangers. For me, it began following the birth of my first child. I was struck with the fear that no one would recognize and appreciate the daily develop. mental milestones my child was accomplishing. Who would support and celebrate each achievement with smiles and expressions of love?

When my boys started school, the haunting question surfaced again. I was concerned about their fragile self-esteem and how easily it could be promoted or damaged. Who would comfort yet teach at the same time? Who would care when I wasn't there?

And now my boys are camp age. This time I am entrusting these children, my reason for existence, to you. Who will care when I'm not there? Who will understand that these messy and, at times, belligerent young boys are also the essence of our future? Who will take the time to appreciate basic child development knowledge, as well as the unique qualities of their personalities? Who will ensure that my children have fun and, at the same time, learn important life lessons? Who will help my children understand how they can work as a team, contributing and succeeding? Who will help my children understand the importance of a community and the responsibilities that lie within? Who will keep my children safe and guard their tender feelings while they are acting invincible? Who will care when I'm not there?

This time, the answer to my question is the camp counselor. You, with your spirit, energy, and hope for the future. You, who are offering my children the opportunity to explore, discover, and learn about the best things life has to offer. You, who are willing to laugh, talk, and cry with my children, creating an understanding of social bonding. You, who are aware of the situations and circumstances that on the surface appear harmless but can often turn dangerous. You, who are willing to care when I am not there.

I have said the camp experience is a win-win for everyone. As a parent, I win because my children grow and learn. My children win because they have fun and collect lifelong friends and memories. Society wins because the camp experience helps make healthy, productive adults. And you, the camp counselor, can win because there is no greater feeling than knowing that you have made a positive difference in a child's life. Have a great summer.