By Rabbi Andrea Cosnowsky – Segel in Tiferet Aleph – Associate Rabbi From Congregation Etz Chaim, Lombard, IL.
What an incredible time I had yesterday morning while walking to the Beit Tefillah (place of prayer) in Tiferet. One of my campers pointed up to a tree and said, “Look! A woodpecker!” We stopped to admire the bird hitting the tree, before he flew away and we resumed our walk. What an experience to be able to slow down long enough to appreciate nature through the eyes of a young child. It is unusual in the hectic pace of life to have such an opportunity. But this is what camp is all about – making usual moments sacred and special.
Later, I heard the sounds of singing wafting through the air, while the Kallah campers sang about the colors of the rainbow in Hebrew and English from the Mirpeset (balcony) of the Chader Ochel (Dining Hall). The Moshavah kids came to the sports center and I watched a small group play Duck, Duck, Goose while I took an opportunity to stretch with another small group while still others participated in various sporting activities. Looking up, I saw the Tzofim campers on the basketball courts, having a great time playing. When I took a moment to pause during the day and sit on the swing of the Bayit (Main house at OSRUI) I observed campers enjoying water sports – such as waterskiing and boating. I am looking forward to jumping on the water trampoline in the lake with my campers later this week.
What an amazing experience to serve on the faculty of Tiferet. This is my first time with this eidah (unit), although I have served many other units in the past. Tiferet is ripe with talent. I was amazed at the various superheroes the unit collaborated on and created. We swam in the pool, ate tater tots and sloppy Joe’s for lunch, continued with studio time, then learned Hebrew and had a wonderful evening activity.
I cannot wait to see what wonderful and artistic things we will create tomorrow! Life at camp is never boring, and this year has started out to be as exciting and wonderful as always!