Lanalog
FALL 2019
Dear Lanakila, I miss camp! There’s no other way describe how I’m feeling. I miss chicken patties—the chaos of birthday night — American Ball — campfire games — and Jeremy Cutler’s unique hairstyle. Each of these images could conjure up a feeling of sadness, as I long to get back to camp and a summer of fun and adventure. On the flip side, these images could also bring a smile to my face, providing me with the incredible memories of all we accomplished this summer. In typical camp fashion, I choose the latter, knowing that I can decide how I want to feel and what I want to focus on.
These snapshots provide us images of the community we built, the friendships we developed and maintained, the challenges we surmounted... This fall, I’ve been really focused on the concept of never taking anything for granted. I think this fits nicely with how I view my experiences at camp. As I stood at Final Council Fire, watching your illuminated faces in the candlelight, I took a
snapshot in my mind. I wanted to capture my appreciation of our loving and supportive community. Then there was the Ameden League finals and the torrential downpour that almost wreaked havoc on our ability to finish the game. As the rain poured down, the entire camp ran out to the field and began an impromptu dance party under a double rainbow. I once again took a snapshot in my mind, reminding myself that any situation offers an opportunity for fun. I believe these snapshots (or memories) have the ability to remind us of the lessons of Lanakila 2019. They can provide us images of the community we built, the friendships we developed and maintained, the challenges we surmounted, and the power to see possibility and purpose in all of our actions. I am counting down the days until I see each of you again. Until then, be well, find silliness in your daily life, and do something nice for someone today. Skol,
BRYAN PARTRIDGE Director of Lanakila