Thursday, July 28, 2011Big Moments
THe last 24 hours have been filled with some big moments. First, my sweet husband drove down and was here for our meeting yesterday. The kdis were really excited to see him. WE shared a few things we had learned and maybe the reason that they were here. One said that her life moved at a lot slower pace here and she saw more things, a very different perspective. Others talked about how their camper's resistance, tantrums, etc. reminded them of their relationship with God. We also realized that we talk to God so much more here, because we need him and can't do it without him, which is how it really is all the time we just don't see it. It was a really great time together, we pray ed for each other. The Barnastormers talked about dealing with people around you who don't do their job and about how they are learning to be around kids with Special Needs. AT the beginning of the week, they were very unsure, now they want to serve food so they can be around them. Sweet bunch of kids!
The big dance was the party last night, always a favorite. They love to get dressed up and dance with boys! Jalen's sib cabin even had escorts for the dance(Bill doesn't know this yet)Oops! IT is always a blast and the love it so much! They miss out on things like Prom and so this is something they really look forward to. Also, the Wrap up time was very touching. A lady read a story and kids acted it out about who God is and where He is. It was unbelievably almost quiet during this time. One of my campers said, "Oh, I get it now." Another said, "Jeseus is right here.(and pointed to her heart." They hadn't really said much like that before. You could feel God's presence in the room. I think kids with Autism pick up on a lot more about God than we think. IT's just hard for them to explain.
Another big moment was the Cross Carry and Say-So tonight. IT is the high light of the week. THe cross is passed from cabin to cabin and the campers pray over it. Then they get to share whatever they want with the camp. It's really cool to hear in their own words what camp has meant to them.
Time is bittersweet right now. While we can't wait for normal food, nice showers, and a bug-free world(at least in your room) our hearts are breaking to leave our campers tomorrow. I will share one final blog tomorrow, but I am too emotional to tell you what happened in my cabin tonight. I believe God has been showing me it is the reason we are here. Please keep the kids in your prayers ( and me) as we process all God has shown us and done for us this week. Sometimes it takes a little bit of time to see it clearly. Pray for them, give them some time and then ask them what God showed them on this trip.
AGain, thanks for raising such wonderful kids. I also want to thank Mary jean for leading the prayer team. YOur comments, notes, and prayers have made all the difference. Thank you!