"........(She has autism but) I felt like somehow I got through to her for the first time in that moment, and sharing a laugh with someone is the most raw, real and fun moment you could ever share. This past week I felt like I got through to her..if only for a minute...but that minute meant the world to me."
"....Watching these kids soar in activities brought tears to my eyes and made me realize how capable they are to do anything, it just means they can accomplish it in a different way. I feel so blessed to witness these miracles that others would not consider amazing, but it truly is incredible. This week was so eye opening and such a great experience for my heart and I can't wait for next summer"
"...The gifts from campers this week piled one on top of the other. 'J' learned sign language so she could communicate with 'A'. 'H' constantly singing and saying, "I'm happy." 'E' walking around the cabin in the buff carrying on perfectly legitimate conversations. 'K' hiding a slew of balloons in the closet so she could surprise her mom at pick up. 'B' telling me happy birthday...even when it was the day after my birthday. Not to mention, my birthday in and of itself was a gift. All the kids and staff made me feel loved and adored"
I could go on with heartfelt narratives from college students who have sacrificed their summers to serve children with disabilities... yet find themselves getting much more than they gave.
It is a calling for me (and for us all?) to cherish the "small" moments... with our family, our children, our friends, our community. I am going to work to notice (and note) those moments even when I am not at ESP. I guess the saying is true: the best gifts come in the smallest packages.
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