After the Spain and Brazil group left, I felt a little uneasy , for the first couple of days. I had developed a strong bond with them, and it was hard to say good- bye, but I knew, we had to move on . We had new faces, and we had to make them feel at home. For me, the hardest part was starting over fresh, especially when it came to the teaching and energy level . Another, was adjusting to a new culture. The kids had to take the time to get acclimated with the other groups and staff, so at first, they were a little hesitate and shy to make an expression, after a time a couple of days ice breakers and conversation ,they open up quickly. The challenge for us as a staff, is making sure the energy of the remainders were still high, so it can rub off on the newcomers, a little comfortable at first, everyone got acquainted with one another From talents shows, activities, classes, trips, movie nights, and Friday night parties, we formed our own little crew. The SKS crew, which we represented, no matter where we went, from basketball games, water parks, baseball games, amusement parks, a hikes, shopping mall,s or movies, it was moments well spent.Through good times and bad times, whatever issues, misunderstandings, mix ups, or mishaps, we were there for the kids, and we wanted to make sure they learned, while they were have a good time. We did just that, and the torch was passed on to the second group. .As new friendships were being made, and memories new were being created. There are many things that stuck with me during my six week period, but the ones that stuck with me, made a lasting impression. For me, I had a chance to meet two girls, who made it enjoyable to go shopping with, have fun, and share laughs with. Tiffany and Valeria, who shared with me , something I forgot to do, as I got older, and that was to live in the moment. A time where this statement is reflected , is when I decided to take the girls to the park, and we wanted to put our feet in the water fountain, but after a few minutes, we decided to jump in , with not a care in the world. Another is having the opportunity and time to teach and get to know each student, whether, through meals, trips, activities, and personal downtime, we became a family. The last memory, that stuck with me was at the pizza party. For one thing, it was our final Friday night part , but also, the fun and excitement everyone had, screaming and dancing to Shakira's single Waka, Waka, forming a circle, bouncing along, holding hands, erasing the memory of discomfort they might of had from the beginning of the camp. I learnt some lessons as well, when it came to what I have taught the children and what the children have taught me. As a kid, you enjoy more and seem to forget about time, as an adult, we seem to be obsessed with time, which no longer factors into the balance of equation. One more thing I learnt that came from my staff members, is organization, which is a big part of success, spare of the moment ideas can sometimes backfire, no matter how good they are, like all great soldiers , all battles are won by execution and careful planning, only then the mission is justified. Thank you all for allowing me the chance to get to know each and everyone of you. Best of luck to you all. One Love
