By its very definition "Kesem," in Hebrew, means magic. At camp, I have come to learn that "Kesem" is much more than a simple definition though. It embodies a lifestyle, an adventure, a hope. I first heard about Camp Kesem BYU while sitting in the all too exciting beginnings of an American Lit. course. A bubbly blonde walked up to the front of the class, with a smile that stretched from ear to ear. I figured that her life must have been going pretty well so I payed attention to her short spiel about an opportunity to be a camp counselor for a group that helps kids who are dealing with cancer in their homes. She wrote the time and place that they would host an introductory meeting and I thought, "Why not?" Later that day I walked into the varsity theater where I was welcomed by the sight of a total of five people. Obviously I began to have my doubts, but decided to sit in the very front next to someone with a smile equally as large as the blonde's from class. She introduced herself as Griff as she handed me a peanut butter and apricot sandwich, making me believe that her parents we really "creative" individuals. I learned that it was simply a camp name and that if I joined I'd have to think of one too. It wasn't until my first day at camp that I realized the significance of creating a new identity, a means of escape from everything outside our realm of reality.
After a ridiculously outlandish and fun couple of meetings I began to catch of bit of Kesem fever. The energy was and still is super contagious and I couldn't wait till August rolled around. After a brief hiatus in June and July I was ready to get started. As we drove up a canyon in Salt Lake it became apparent to me that it would be a great week, but I really didn't know what to expect. Sure, we had gone over protocols, activities, and schedules, but camp is something you experience, not something you explain. All of the awesome/crazy people that I had meetings with over the last few months were there, along with a few more new kids which I was convinced must have been equally as awesome/crazy. We began our Monday by setting up a bridge that would help define the week to follow (it was the coolest bridge ever). Just take a look...
The mixture of chalk drawings, the banner, the puffy balls, and the lighting would only help solidify just how great this week would become. A few kids came at first, but before long we had a train of excited and nervous campers. It was only natural that we welcome them with a mini dance party followed by an exchange of new t-shirts. As soon as they had all arrived...well...a whole lot of amazing things happened. Among them included crazy water fights, me getting dressed up like (well the pic will have to explain), overcoming fears #ropescourse, and learning life lessons from the most impressive and inspirational kids that I have ever met. Whether it was their constant joy despite their circumstances or sheer superhero mentality, they all left a lasting impression.
So now, whenever anyone asks what "Kesem" means, I can say without a doubt that it is indeed magic.
-Otto
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