Evans Lake Photo Challenge #1

by: Steve Musgrave

by: Shelley Matheson

by: Vanessa Loft

by: Steve Musgrave

Dear Evans Lake,

                    It’s always the most intense emotions that sound the corniest in writing.  I’m sitting here, trying to say something profound, but words are eluding me.  Because how do you describe a place that is your home and heaven put together? How does someone convey the overwhelming amounts of love and understanding felt at Evans Lake?

                    It’s hard to believe I have only spent three weeks here, for it feels like my true home.  It is within the great expanse of forest that I have my most vivid memories; sneaking and running around completely engaged in such simple games.  It was sitting on the bunks in the cabins, the excited whispers of girls talking after lights out, that I felt most understood and connected with others my own age.  And it was sprinting on the field, singing songs at campfire, even banging on tables in the dining hall that I felt most alive. 

                    Evans Lake inspires you to learn and grow.  And what makes the experience so special is not the absence of mistakes (for there are many) but how they are received.  No one is judged or laughed at, but instead understood.  Because somehow these recent strangers quickly become your closest friends.  You know they’re real friends too, for they don’t only want to have fun with you, but also want to see you learn and excel.  It is because of this understanding and encouraging that you feel comfortable taking risks you never could at home.  And at the end of the week, everyone, campers from eight to sixteen, counsellors, even grown up instructors, have matured more than they would have during a year at home. 

                    I could spend forever writing about the magic, the joy, the energy that is created and experienced here.  But I guess what I’m trying to say is pretty simple: I love this place.  It is my home; where I feel happiest, most loved, and most alive.  I only wish that the ‘real world’ could be a fraction as amazing as Evans Lake.

                    Love,

                         An Inspired Camper  

by: Steve Musgrave

by: Shelley Matheson

Thank you for all the submissions!  We are going to be announcing the next challenge soon, so stay on the alert!