Demonstrations Every Day at Camp

By Aaron & K.C. Morris, Ranch Co-directors

Daily decisions punctuate our work at camp. Some decisions feel large: What programs should we offer? Which building is next on the list for upgrades? And others seem comparatively small: Which flowers should we plant in the barrels by the Hub doors? What color should we choose for the new t-shirt design?

Over the past year, the idea that every decision made at camp should be a Christian Science demonstration has come into clearer focus. It’s really what work at camp is all about – opportunities to see the Science of the Christ demonstrated, to pause and listen for God’s way forward, to lean on divine Mind in every instance, even the ones that don’t feel complicated.

We’re reminded of Mary Baker Eddy’s statement in the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures (p. 340):

“Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” (Exodus xx. 3.) The First Commandment is my favorite text. It demonstrates Christian Science.

It’s such a blessing to consider how this commandment should anchor our decision-making at camp (and in life). When we make the conscious decision to have only one God, the idea that anything else could influence us falls away.

At camp, this shows up in many beautiful ways: A mountain camper completes a ropes course element when they recognize that fear cannot direct their experience. A horsemanship camper canters for the first time while understanding how infinite Spirit is impelling them forward. A rafting camper guides a rapid on the river with precise Principle-led commands. The flower beds in front of Valerie Lodge bloom joyfully as a reflection of perfect Soul.

And decisions? The right ones for camp come naturally, because they flow from the basis of demonstrating Christian Science at every step. How grateful we are!