I never really knew what I wanted to do with my life. I'm kind of indecisive when it comes to long term commitments and decisions that have the ability to change my life. Then one day a friend of mine asked me to come and work with her at a camp near her home in Elgin, Texas. I didn't really know what it was all about but I figured what the heck, if nothing else I would at least get a few community service hours out of it.When I was told the ages of the people attending the camp I was intimidated because I was so much younger than everybody else that would be present during this week. This is a normal camp that one might attend a week during the summer though; this is a camp for adults. ...view middle of the document...
They must have IQ's over a certain number, must be able to function for themselves, can not be wheelchair bound, and they cannot have violent outburst. Though there are some instances in which retreaters are sent home most of the time they are just happy to be there. The camp tries to provide an as normal as possible camp experience. They get to ride horses, crafts, swimming, canoeing, paddleboats, nature walks, and one night they may even chose to sleep in a teepee outside! The week isn't only about having fun though, its also about learning. The adults learn how to take care of plants and animals plus they learn about the earth around them and how to identify the dangerous from the not so dangerous. They are allowed opportunities that would never be given to them outside this environment.The camp enchanted me with its special way of doing things and its very special people. It was then that I realized what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. What kind of people I wanted to work with and whom I wanted to help. It may not be the most glamorous of careers. I may not make the most money, but its what I want - to be a special education teacher.I go back faithfully to the place that changed my life. The first Saturday of every spring break I make that three-hour drive and arrive late to the counselor orientation. It's a small-relaxed atmosphere as the newest counselors learn the ropes and what to expect the next day as they start to arrive. I anxiously anticipate the arrival of the retreaters for the week as I look over the list of people signed up to come I normally recognize half or more of...
