Terry’s Time- Turning Fears Into Triumphs July 3, 2016 Aristotle said, practicing courage could make all the difference in life. “You will never do anything in this world without courage.” This week at camp the lodge has really been impressed with the courage many of our Camp Marimeta girls have displayed so far. As we we walk around camp or watch out our window we see these young girls taking baby steps to build their confidence. At Camp Marimeta our girls are encouraged to take risk and look their fear in its face. We have one camper who last year was so afraid of dogs she couldn’t even be in the lodge if the dogs where in the other room. Today not only is she in the lodge with both Mimi and Lola but she will even pet them. Exposure is hands down the most successful way to deal with everyday fears. We are all so proud of how this young lady as well as her friends that encouraged her, to not just face fear, but to take the risk to take action. Action breeds confidence and courage. Many of Marimeta campers are swimming in a lake for the first time. Not seeing the bottom and worrying about fish and the unknown are genuine fears of many of our little girls. With concern in their eyes they literally “jump into the lake” and go for it. The older girls give to the beginners, helping them move ahead. To take a big risk, it helps to have a friend or mentor or a “big sister”. The high ropes challenge course is a place where we see acrophobia. The fear of heights can be crippling. Tears and anxiety are common sites on the ropes course. This year the determination and bravery of one of our tiniest and youngest campers has been inspiring. First off she took action by deciding to put this activity in her schedule. On the first day of class she found the fortitude to climb the initial ladder, she got up to the top of the ladder and she decided she had enough. Shaking and with tear in her eyes she made her way back down to the ground. On the following day with great apprehension not only did she succeed and make it to the top, she also participated in each of the elements on the course. The cheering and support was so incredible, she must of felt like she climbed Mt. Everest. So what are your fears….go out and get busy making them disappear. May your week be full of fun, sunshine and most of all laughter. Love Terry