The Path of Empathy

Jul 11

I walked along the concrete road, which winded up the grassy hills. Underneath the lush pink sky, I gulped my citrus drink. The refreshing taste of lemonade and cool breeze kiss my cheeks.

Looking ahead on my path through the hills, I saw a man in rags. His ragged clothes and tufted hair made my surroundings much more sad. “Shoot, there goes my peaceful walk”, I thought, “I’d better pick another path”.

Just as I had turned to walk- surely in the opposite direction- I had the sneaking idea of giving the man attention. I forged myself toward the man again- the same man in the rags. When he had noticed, I gave him a smile, and lifted the drink in my hand.

As I smiled, the man’s eyes sparkled with joy and gracious splendor. It was then I realized that the man was indeed a vendor! “How’d you like your lemonade, sir?”, he asked with genuine interest. “Delicious”, I replied, “it’s perfect for a summer evening.”.

“Good day, sir, and thank you again.”, I spoke as I walked away. As I walked I felt relief, but also a hint of shame. I had judged the man by his appearance- his ragged clothes and all. And as I judged I felt nothing wrong while enjoying his delicious product.

I walked so deeply in my cloudy thoughts I had almost lost my way home. But before I knew it, I was at my door, and ready to rest my mind. I pulled off my shoes, folded my socks, and opened my front window. Drifting asleep, the songbirds sang and inspired my next decision. With a sigh of relief, I emptied my chest, and breathed, “empathy, you are humanity’s hero”.

“I believe empathy is the most essential quality of civilization” - Roger Ebert

Origami World

Our camper friend, Juwan, created a deep sea origami world. The gorgeous sea-inspired creation must have also inspired our fellow campers, too. Do you see one that catches your eye?

Happy Holidays!

In light of the days where communities celebrate liberation, theology, and worldly prized possessions, we asked students to create a day dedicated to their own aspirations.