The Bittersweet End of Rookie Camp

As the sun dipped below the horizon, marking the end of our final day of Rookie Camp, the air was filled with the sound of laughter—a testament to the joy that has permeated every moment. The last day was a crescendo of cheer, with campers and counselors alike savoring the sweet sorrow of parting. The laughter was not just a sound but a reminder that happiness had found a home among the trees and trails of our beloved GRP.

Just before twilight swept across the sky, we gathered around the Upper Council Fire for one last time. The flickering flames danced to the rhythm of our songs, and a profound reverence settled over us. It was a scene of shared splendor, a collage created from the myriad moments of connection and the harmony of our collective song. The night deepened, and we carried out an enchanting tradition—setting candle-lit wishboats adrift on the tranquil lake. Each tiny vessel, aglow with hope and dreams, carried the magic of the moment into the darkness, creating a spectacle of light that mirrored the stars as they began to twinkle from above.

The bonds forged here are not confined to a single summer; they are the kind that last forever more. While the wishboats disappeared into the night, we made silent promises to return, to rekindle the friendships that had become our summer family. And though the campfire has turned to embers, the warmth remains in our hearts. We eagerly await the arrival of next season’s Rookie Campers, ready to pass on the legacy of laughter, song, and the indelible spirit of our summer sanctuary.

Story and photos by Brandon S. Marshall