The first week of camp is always hectic and crazy, but Shabbat seems to be the one thing that calms everyone down. From the chaos and rowdiness of Opening Day, campers look forward to watching the sunset over Lake Jake during Friday evening services. Shabbat over the lake is one of my favorite parts of camp and it brings me peace during the craziness of camp.
All this week, our campers have been looking ahead at what comes next- what is the next activity, what are we eating for the next meal, when is it my turn to tie-dye. Our weeks are filled with new experiences, but when Friday evening rolls around, and this week’s journey comes to a close, the familiar sounds and smells of a GFC Shabbat appear. Shabbat is a time to pause and reflect on the week before. It is a time to breathe in the summer air and be present in this moment.
In my third year on staff, I have learned the ins and outs of camp, which has only made me appreciate the calm and serenity of Friday evening services even more. All campers and staff coming together, gathering with friends, and creating new memories is a blessing in itself. I hope this Shabbat brings calm and serenity to you. Shabbat Shalom.
Lindsey Plotkin
Avodah Counselor
Cornerstone Supervisor
Journalism Inter