My summer review

Well, I have had an interesting summer. I was able to meet and work with some amazing people this summer as well as meet some amazing kids. I spent 9 weeks at YMCA Camp Hanes in King, NC.

I have been asked why I worked at camp. This question always offered me trouble. I needed a job, but that isn't it. It seemed like fun, but again that isn't it. The reason I worked at camp is because I wanted to make a difference.

This seems like a lofty goal, even now. But looking back on this goal, I feel like I succeeded. How you may ask. Well, I know that I made a difference in people's lives because of the gratitude that was shown me. From the Day Camper, Josh who every time he saw me yelled to get my attention just to say "hey" to the staff that will text me to see how things are since camp.

I feel like this is somewhat selfish though. I say I wanted to work this job to make a difference to other people, but what about the people who made a difference in my life? There were many. I met and worked with around 70 of the most amazing people in the world. Each one brought amazing energy and a specialness that can't be described, but I am going to try.

I worked with people from all over the world; England, Wales, Brazil (or if you ask them Brasil), Texas, Arkansas, and yes even New York. These are the most exotic places. The rest of the staff hailed from the Great North State. I came in not knowing a soul that I worked with. This was a daunting challenge, but it did not matter. By the end of the first week, I had been accepted and was able to open up in a way that I haven't seen since I was playing football.

I lived with these people 6 days a week for 9 weeks. I know a bit about all of them and a good deal about some. I made some friends that I will stay in touch with forever. I have had a chance to look inside myself and start the journey to discover who I am after football. I have had the greatest experience of my life this summer. Because of sports, I never got to go to traditional sumer camp. I went to Scout camp and sports camps all over the South East, but none of them compared to Camp Hanes.

I want to thank everyone that was at Camp this summer. You are all special and you have all made a great impact on my life. You have been there for me and you have seen me fail (on the diving board), but you have also seen me succeed (on the power pole). I hope that I have been able to impact your life like you impacted mine. I will never forget any of you.