Putting out the new welcome mat
Do you remember setting out a new welcome mat with the fresh message to convey invitation and welcome into your home? People cross that threshold as they come and go, to and from your place of welcome.
Time passes on. The message is the same, WELCOME, and yet the mat ceases to function as originally designed. It no longer collects the dirt and bits of mud, moisture, or debris. In fact it can often become a source of those items that are then carried into your home. In addition, the WELCOME is not quite as fresh and certainly no longer as bold in its message. It becomes time to replace the WELCOME mat.
When I started in this position, there was some angst surrounding new expectations. The older youth and campers were fearful of changes that might occur. What would happen to their very special place? After all, it was their camp, and no one knew what was needed better than they. It was a difficult season, and the second season was even harder.
By the end of the second season, the campers began to understand how deeply they were loved; and that by having standards and expectations, we were in fact providing a safe, emotional and spiritual camp that welcomed everyone. The hardest part was the realization that it was okay and healthy to change, to look at and celebrate who we were and who we could become.
It is healthy to ask questions and realize when it is time to adapt and rediscover. The tragedy occurs when the lives of our youth are so chaotic and unsettled that any thought of change instills feelings of fear or abandonment. They may fear for some reason that a part of what they hold so precious can no longer be enjoyed. Who will walk with them? Who will be there to comfort them and let them know that it is okay? Camp Cross is still their special place. It is growing and becoming more than they could ever imagine, all with God’s Grace and Love.
When we see our WELCOME MAT through the eyes of our neighbor or a stranger, we need not be afraid to acknowledge what it actually says and what we want the message to be. Then we can boldly dust it off or put out a new one to WELCOME all into our special place.
