Studying journalism for the past three years has greatly developed my interest in learning about people’s different beliefs, backgrounds, and walks of life; however, throughout my early teenage years I held a skeptical viewpoint on religion. This was simply because I felt a sense of togetherness was lacking from a lot of practices that ironically involve so many people.

However, at Crane Lake this is not the case. Community comes in abundance. I arrived at camp like so many of the other international members of staff, dazed, confused and tired. Flashlights, cheers, a series of high fives and some much needed hugs greeted us as we slumped our way off the bus. The unpleasant sounds of suitcases being dragged up the entrance path followed as we were shown to the Beit Am where even more friendly faces awaited us. After I had quickly used the restroom, I walked back into the room to see everyone standing in a circle. After a rush of introductions, we were encouraged to put arms around each other and sing a good night prayer. At this point I was still incredibly tired and slightly grouchy, yet it was one of the warmest welcomes I have ever received in my life.

Before coming to Crane Lake, I researched so much about the Jewish religion to grasp an idea of what the experience would be like. I looked into what is acceptable to wear, what type of food would be served on a daily basis and what duties I would be expected to perform as an International Specialist. I was also very anxious that being a part of the community would have been an issue at camp.
Yet when I was swaying in the circle on that first night, trying to grasp the words to the evening prayer, it wasn’t a religion with an ideology or a system of rules that my youthful self would’ve so arrogantly expected. It felt like a community that was instantly being created. A safe haven of acceptance and togetherness that became strong in the first few moments. I can’t finish the post without expressing how blessed I felt to be part of the community on the day that marriage equality was passed across the United States. To see so many people share their experiences and joyfulness on such an occasion made me realize just how strong a bond truly can be. To hear Debby and her family speak of the impact that the passing of this law meant to them was inspirational and made me realize that hiding who I was for 7 years to please others was not right, but that somehow everything I had done until now lead me to that moment, and that hearing everyone’s words at that Shabbat service was what I had been waiting for. It also made me realize that if I could go and speak to my younger self, I would reiterate the fact that small mindedness only influences the way you think and will never influence others in the powerful way that acceptance can.

A quick mention to my favorite aspect of camp, which is of course Shabbat! It is a beautiful celebration shared with the people around you through the universal common ground of music and dance. Everyone is together and it again is something that only strengthens the community.

I had my doubts and apprehensions about coming to a Jewish camp. But since being here it has proved that there is an unstoppable force in community, and that not only is it unstoppable, it is unbreakable.

By Rachael Harker, Photographer