When I think about the things that have defined who I am – as an individual, as a member of the Jewish community, as a leader, a mentor, a co-worker, and as a friend – my 21 years as a camper, counselor, Unit Head, and Assistant Director at Greene Family Camp are what have made me who I am today.
Thinking back on all of these years, it is impossible to put my feelings and my gratitude into words. For as long as I can remember, my parents have given me the freedom to make my own decisions, to learn from my mistakes, and to create my own path forward in life. However, in 2001, my mom told me that “You are going to Jewish summer camp – you will thank us one day…” and that was the end of the discussion. Here we are, 22 years later, and I can say without a doubt, “Thank you, mom and dad.”
On February 11th, I will be leaving my job as an Assistant Director at GFC and moving on to a new career with a civil engineering firm in Dallas. This decision was almost impossible to make, because working for Greene is much more than a job – it is an extension of my family.
To this family – my Greene family – I want to say thank you.
To everyone who I have had the opportunity learn from in my journey to where I am today – my bunkmates, counselors, co-counselors, unit heads, clergy, and role models – Thank you for believing in me, for pushing me, and for helping me realize that camp is the place where we can all grow to be the best possible versions of ourselves. You allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and try new things, while always making me feel like I was safe and secure with your support, love, and encouragement. Thank you for teaching me that I can do anything that I set my mind to.
To my past campers, staff members, campers who became staff members, media teams, and everyone who I have had the pleasure to supervise: Remember this, YOU make a difference. YOU create magic. YOU change lives everyday. It has been an honor to watch you grow into the people that you are today. You are MY magic. Growing up at camp taught me many incredible lessons, but watching you grow has given me so many gifts that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Thank you for giving me you hearts and your trust. I am lucky to have had the opportunity to learn from each of you.
To the full-time team, past and present: You truly are the strongest, most passionate people (not to mention superheroes) that I know. You preform the unthinkable day after day, bringing magic and light into the world and shaping the next generation. Loui and Stefani, thank you for being the best leaders and role models that I could have asked for. Growing up at camp was so special because of the safe and joyful place that you created… and thank you for trusting me to join the full-time team, so that I could help reciprocate that legacy. Erin, Larry, Andrew, McKenzie, Melissa, Ethan, Jared, Rose, Linda, Eli, and Beau – You have all taught me so much and will be part of my life forever. The challenges that we have faced and overcome together are insurmountable, and I will forever be in awe of the positivity and poise that each of you bring with you everywhere you go. Thank you for being the best possible versions of each of you. Together, you have truly changed the world for the better.
Now it is time to take the next step in my professional journey. Although this next step is filled with bittersweet emotions, I am excited for what my future holds. And while camp won’t be my “real world” any longer, there will always be a piece of my heart left in Bruceville… and I can’t wait to come back for a visit.
To the next generation – thank you for all that you will do. The future is in good hands!
With Love,
Michaela