Elijah B: Camp Myrtlewood (Day 1)

My name is Elijah and this is my birthday, the official day one of NBTSC, from my perspective

I woke up in a puddle of love, effortlessly flowing into my morning. My friend Leon to my left, Eddie to their left, and Zoe to my right. I slept in the field with them, the field always treats me good when I need her the most. breakfast was yogurt, lemon ginger tea, and many hugs. I spent my meal at a picnic table with my faces, familiar and new. After finishing I put a few gifts on other folks clothespins, and was on my way to morning meeting. I asked Ophie J to lead the birthday song, and had them choose a camp song to sing beforehand. It was incredible, I had never felt more celebrated in such a long time. My friend M. filmed it and I cannot wait to show my mom!

Advisee was long because of it being the first day of camp, but endlessly fun to actually meet and learn a bit about my group! I spent the day cuddling, being said happy birthday to, and adjusting to camp life. It was really enjoyable feeling the realization that all of this was non-obligatory love. Some of these people don’t know who I am and yet without fail I am showered in endless appreciation, uplifting compliments, and the warmest welcomes. It was nothing short of an absolutely incredible birthday experience.

it was time for evening meeting, and the usual goes on. But this year there was a new stage! a stage that needed a grand opening for celebration. Ophie J announces me and my birthday for what I believe to be the last time. Minutes later, site staff tell me and the crowd they have a gift for me and my birthday, to which they proceed to carry out an inflatable couch, placing it in the field for all of me to enjoy. It was so comfortable in contrast with the cold grass and dirt on the field floor. This was the most stunned and flattered I felt that day. At the staff talent show, they introduced themselves and hearing even a little about their lives was so intriguing. I am eager to know these people more deeply. Their performances were amazing, inspiring, and emotional. I cherished seeing this years staff’s creativity flow into their acts and work, you can truly tell they care so sincerely about.

The night ended with the biggest field sleeping group I have ever had in my NBTSC experience, owls hooting, coyotes howling, forever giggling to one another about the silly things we think of until we tire our bodies to rest. This is home. I am not surviving anymore. I am living.

Elijah Bleu, Camper