Adaptation of “A Mamma’s Prayer for Summer Camp” by Rabbi Phyllis Sommer adapted by Cantorial Soloist Sarah Avner, our Summer Education Director.
May you experience learning and growth of both your bodies and minds.
May you gain independence and feel comfort in your Jewish identity.
May the mosquitoes, snakes and bees be guided away from you, and may the raindrops only fall while you are sleeping, as not to disrupt your schedule.
May the food be delicious and may there be enough bread and peanut butter when it isn’t.
May you seek out new experiences and try new things like fruits and vegetables.
May you smile brilliantly for the camp photographer and show up daily in the online photo albums your parents peruse twice daily.
May you avoid the camp crud and may you never lose your socks.
May you take a shower and brush your teeth every day.
May your towels and bathing suits dry in the time allotted on the front porch.
May your arrows fly straight, your fishing line never get tangled, and your tetherball not whack you in the nose.
May you be pleased with your bunk assignment, be it top or bottom.
May the canteen be stocked with your favorite candies and sodas.
May you not lose your hat and water bottle in the first week.
May you not lose your way in the night to the infirmary for night meds.
May you write your parents at least one letter besides the mandatory first-day-postcard.
May you create at least one life-long friendship because, as we all know, camp friends are the best friends.
May you renew old friendships, since they are the most precious.
May you get the most out of this unique opportunity to practice who you might want to be when you grow up.
May you return home in one piece with all your belongings, and some of your bunkmates.
And may you ever yearn to return to the land of summer camp.
As together we say: Amen