June 21st, 2011
“Best summer ever with my friends,” said the 11 year-old on the ride back from Camp David as she reviewed her scrapbook that she had made that week. I looked at her and said “Was that the best summer ever?” She nodded her little face up and down.
If I did not know these children and their situations, I wouldn’t have guessed they were homeless, staying at a shelter, and that their parents were battling some of life’s darkest temptations. Being in a city, being in a transient situation, not knowing where their next meal might come from, if they have one, doesn’t always allow for a fun, loving, and care-free childhood. Children of these families are often forced into an adult mindset and learn life’s evils before they get time to be a child.
At Camp David none of life’s evils, none of the family’s problems, and none of the everyday worries that come with teen and child growing pains seem to be present. These children get time to enjoy nature, arts and crafts, farm animals, and even catching frogs down by the dock if they choose. They get to enjoy the company of each other and the guidance of the Christ-filled leaders and volunteers present. As manager of Family Ministries, I can say that true happiness is witnessed with each child, each day at Camp David.
Cities are filled with buildings, parking lots, shopping malls, and highways all made by man. Out in the country, I believe these children feel a bit closer to God and his original creation. It is a time for them to remember that there is beauty and love out there in the world and that these children don’t have to follow in their parent’s footsteps.
Dan Formidoni, Asst. BTL Program Manager
Bridge to Life Program
City Rescue Mission
(405) 232-2709 Ext, 125
Posted on
Tue, June 21, 2011
by Bryan Montgomery