My Experience at

TLC (Teen Leadership Camp)

By

Joseph S.

I was a little scared the morning we headed for the bus to go to TLC. But I was hopeful that I would have fun. I was afraid I wouldn’t make any friends and also scared because my sister had told me the poles we had to climb on were really high.

This was my first bus ride and the first time in my life I had done something without my sisters or my mom along with me. I was afraid I would make a mistake or chicken out and have no friends.

When we arrived we were sorted into our small groups and I met my leader, Kerry. He was a great leader and a really neat guy. He told me it wasn’t what counts on the outside of a person but what is in the inside that makes a person special.

After we introduced ourselves we then played some games to get to know each other better. Then we had dinner the food was really great there. I loved all of it. They had my favorite pizza.

Then we moved our sleeping bags and clothes into our rooms in the dorms. I shared a room with 2 other guys. I was a little scared to be away from home but I was having so much fun I soon forgot about it.

The next 2 days were filled with lots of meetings, games, and the Rotary Olympics. I had so much fun I soon forgot about most of my fears except the one with heights. Then I went to a class with Scott Greenberg and he told us that there is a person in our head who talks to us to make us afraid. Like the one with monsters in your closet. When there really isn’t any monster there. Then after lunch we went out to climb the 30-foot power poles.

I wanted to go first but 3 girls wanted to try first so I let them go. None of the girls could stand on top of the pole and jump. Then I started up the 30-foot pole. When I got to the top the voices in my head said do not jump because the cord might snap and you will fall. But I didn’t listen to the voice in my head and I pulled my self up on top, stood on the very top of the pole and jumped. I felt great and happy it was so much fun and I had got rid of my fear. I wished I could do it again.

The best thing I will always remember about my trip to TLC camp is not to be afraid of making mistakes or making friends. The key to not being afraid is just to be yourself. Because we are each different and very special in every way.

I know others who get to go to TLC will have fun like I did and will have the opportunity to achieve their goals and have a good education.

I thank you for sending me to TLC. I will always treasure that weekend and my chance to overcome my fears. This will help me a lot as I get older.