To my amazing, wonderful child, as you embark on this wild adventure called being a Camp Counsellor.

Today, Camp Counsellor, you are no longer a camper, and the camp universe no longer revolves around you. That is a hard lesson to learn, but it’s also an important lesson, because that is the truth of being an adult.

The good news is that while full-time adulthood is hard, this job as Summer Camp Counsellor is decidedly more user friendly. In fact, being a good Counsellor really only requires two things, given consistently and freely to anyone in need:

1. Show up exactly as you are (the most mature version, please), in the moment where you are.

AND

2. Do it with an open heart.

Here is a secret: if you only remember to do the first thing, you will still be a good counsellor. For example, if you’re feeling homesick, there is probably a camper looking for someone just like you for a cuddle.

But if you also remember to show up in the moment, just exactly as you are - and to bring an open heart - you will be a very, very good counsellor. An excellent counsellor. Because everything done with an open heart is done out of both shared vulnerability and mutual respect. Only good things will grow.