Lights, Camera, Action…

I don’t know whether to be happy or sad that today concluded the first week of camp in Gyumri. After a long week of English class, singing, arts and crafts, and competition we said farewell to the kids until camp reconvenes again on Monday.

When we first began I did not anticipate that after the tough, but exciting week I would be eager for Monday to arrive so I could see my campers again. One  of the things I took from this first week was how the kids in Armenia look forward to the simple things in life.

The simplest things found in the yard bring them joy.  Countless times throughout the day my group asks me when they will have the opportunity to go outside to play.  I feel like this is lost amongst the kids in America, where the simple concept of chasing a ball around an uneven field brings a smile to every child’s face.  The children’s enthusiasm makes me eager to join them in their daily activities; playing soccer and volleyball. However, what really surprises me is the kid’s fascination with taking pictures.  As soon as any of the counselors take out their cameras, a camper is there ready to take pictures. They act as if they will never get the chance to do so again. They take every opportunity to capture every moment.

I wish there was a way I could extend the opportunities offered to them at camp into their daily lives. But for now I can only do my best to bring smiles to the faces of the children of Gyumri and look forward to another week of productive camp.

Karina Nazarian