“When we bring our authentic selves together, we are embodied Joy.” from Camp Katawanana welcome pamphlet.
Something that flatters me is how my sister introduces me to other people within her social circles. She doesn’t just tell people that I’m her younger sister, she makes it a point to say that I am an Artist, period. At this stage in my life, I don’t actively identify as an artist, but her saying this reminds me that art is inherently part of me. Attending post card drawing sessions helped me revisit this part of myself and engaging everyone at the crafting tables brought me so much joy to create & have fun with them. Maybe I’m not a forward-facing artist, but I know that I have lots of creative energy, talent and ideas to share with others.
An unexpected activity that I thoroughly enjoyed was our conversation circle with the Death Doula. This leader’s mission in life is to spread awareness and normalize the topic of death. I found it interesting to hear other campers reflections on the passing of loved ones; for example, the rituals, ceremonies and cultural practices. Recognizing the differences between Dying as a verb (due to declining health & disease) and what Death itself is, the period at the end of someone’s life. We were able to get to a point of the conversation where we were laughing about the extravagant nature of people’s dying wishes. It made me reflect on my own experiences, and how I responded during otherwise somber moments.
Another camp activity that I enjoyed included the Tarot sessions. I entered in the middle of someone’s reading and I offered comments on some cards the hostess was unfamiliar with. When they found out that I could read too, we ended up having collaborative interpretations with other campers! Someone asked about the meaning of placements on spreads, and this gave us an opportunity to demonstrate a Celtic-Cross & Staff. Then, I had the honor of leading the discussion for my sister’s first Tarot reading. I feel like there’s something sacred about holding an intimate space with Tarot. It was great having an open discussion, receiving feedback from my sister and everyone’s presence within the group.
Of course my sister planned an awesome dance party on the final night of camp. She had one of her friends DJing, set up a light show and everything! I wasn’t sure if anyone would be interested, but I brought a few of my silk fans to dance with as well. Silk fans are some of the easier props to travel with, and I had enough to share with those who were curious. I invited other campers to come flow with me and I ended up teaching a handful of people how to dance with them! What I enjoy about teaching dance with Silk Fans is showing others how to explore movement and exercise in a creative way. Some of the campers commented it’s fun to just watch, so I’m glad I could share one of my current joys with everyone.
Something that made the entire weekend so wonderful was being seen & acknowledged by other people. There were moments when we were socializing with each other and I started describing my current occupation and things I enjoy. The campers responded very positively and encouraged me to continue working along my path. Admittedly, there are many times I feel that I have no idea what I’m doing in my adult life, hearing others acknowledge the effort and cheer me on made me feel like my contributions actually matter. I’m so grateful to have an opportunity to gather with my sister and all of her colorful friends. I understand now: every person’s presence was a gift.
Thank You to everyone who came and contributed to something incredible! Hands Down, one of the best Summer Camp experiences I’ve ever lived.
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