Yesterday I volunteered with four of my sorority sisters at Camp Good Grief in Opelika. It's a one-day camp for children who have lost a member of their family. I was one of four other leaders for the Bumblebee group and we had sixteen precious little girls from ages 7-9. We made up cute little cheers to sing all day like, "It's great, to be, a bumblebee" and "bumblebees, bumblebees, YIPPEE!" A lot of the people they lost were grandparents, but a majority had lost siblings and parents within in the past two years. Most of the deaths were unexpected, which added even more to the fear of death and uncertainty of life. The camp was not faith-based, so there was no teaching from the Word, but based on what some of the girls said in small group, I could tell at least some of them came from Christian homes. It was an incredibly long day that began at 5:30 in the morning, but it was so rewarding, and I can't wait until next year. I was reminded of the fragility of life, and how the Lord has given me each breath for a purpose. Thankfully, yesterday's purpose was to love on some sweet little girls who were going through tough times. It was so encouraging to see them lift each other up, especially at an age where girls begin to get catty. The day also confirmed that I definitely do not want to teach elementary school (I was way too worn out!) and that I need to find more opportunities to volunteer and give back where I am right now.
balloon release in memory of all of the lost loved ones (and this isn't even all of the balloons)
