Day 5 at Manitou Experience

By Sara

Saturday, August 27th, 2011

There seems to be one moment that stands out each year at Manitou Experience that reminds us all of what we like to call Manitou Magic. Tonight was that moment. After a beautiful day of hiking, games, and the famous Larry Rodman BBQ dinner, we settled in for Manitou Movies up in the theater. We were treated to a video highlighting the best moments of camp this week, which ended with another best moment. As the last picture faded, a new song started playing and pictures of volunteers, Abby and Matt started scrolling across the screen. Two minutes later, the lights came on and Matt got down on one knee in front of our camp to ask Abby to marry him. She said YES and in typical camp fashion, the “That Was Awesome” chant resounded through the room. We’re all thrilled for Abby & Matt and honored to have shared this incredible moment with them. What a perfect way to remind us that despite the hardships that these boys have experienced, there is still joy to be found in life, and this camp is one place to find it.

The evening continued in Indian Village with our last campfire. This is where my words fail me.
We started off with our traditional “letter home” where someone reads a letter they wrote to someone not at camp. Campers, Quinn and AJ, volunteered to read their letters this year, and each read a letter to his dad. They set the tone for what would become a long line of campers sharing their memories, feelings about camp, hopes for each other, and supportive words. It was unbelievably moving to hear their words and see the way they reach out to comfort each other. They are strong and inspiring and they have taught all of us so much about courage and resiliency. I wish I could describe it better. It was a really special night.

Everyone is settled in for their last night in the bunk before finishing up College League and closing ceremonies tomorrow.