{A Little Saturday Inspiration.}

This particular verse has been my guiding light since I first discovered it back in high school. Growing up in a Lutheran household, I did the whole Sunday School and Confirmation thing. But in what sense have I truly "studied" the Bible? Yes, I have read passages. Yes, I have answered questions on a specific verse. But, only through church events have I been able to actually "study" the Bible. And James 1:12 was discovered during one of those afternoons.

For nine weeks, I busted my butt, struggling to find myself in a sea of 200 children and 30 adults. Yesterday was my last day at summer camp. And boy did I finish with a bitter taste in my mouth. I was constantly being shifted from group to group, acting as a sub, and never really able to establish summer long connections like the other counselors.

Well, today as I was running errands before I move back to Harrisonburg, I heard a little voice yell, "Ms. Kassie!!!" I quickly turned around to see a little girl standing there with her mom. So parents aren't alarmed their child is talking to a "stranger," I quickly responded with the automatic, "Hi, I was one of her camp counselors this summer." And to my surprise her mother replied, "Oh, I know! She talks about you all the time." Really?!?! I might not have been with her every week this summer, but who cares.

Relating this to James 1:12, the last nine weeks were certainly times of trials and tribulations, but I didn't give up. I knew this camp was a group effort and I would be letting the team down by abandoning them to struggle through with one less counselor. I might not have been a crucial asset every single day of camp, but towards the end when several counselors started leaving for school, I was most certainly needed. Not just for licensing reasons, but apparently for the kids too. I truly feel blessed knowing I made an impact on that little girl. I also feel blessed given the opportunity to realize just what age group I am meant to teach. Since I subbed for all seven groups, ages 3 to 12, I have realized my heart is with the first graders. And of course, that little girl was among all of my first graders this summer.