It has been a pleasure to watch the Ocky boys during their first 2 days of Camp. They are truly living the old-fashioned Camp mantra of “the Other Fellow First.” Since they have arrived yesterday, I have watched our Ocky campers helping each other at activities, cheering each other on in the Bowl, and making sure everyone has a room on the bench at Air RIflery. The best part of my day came when I forgot to put the pellets out at the Air Riflery range for the Algonquin’s activity period. I got it out to them as quickly as I could and apologized for making them wait. They were all patient and told me it was ok. One young man named Michael said, “Don’t worry about it, Brent. Everyone makes mistakes.” That put a huge grin on my face. I thought that was pretty incredible for a 12 year old to recognize that everyone makes mistakes and that it is ok to do so.
I love it when I get to witness our boys actually “get it.” It is truly magical to watch a group of campers become a family for their time here at Ockanickon. We have had to wait 10 months for Summer Camp to arrive, and it is finally here! I am so excited for my 20th summer here at Camp. It only gets better every year!
Brent Birchler
Boys Resident Camp Director