Epic Last Day at Shalom Valley

Today, we went with the kids back to the garden in progress. Now, we were finishing up preparing the ground and planting the seeds. Together with the kids, we eagerly worked to finish breaking up the clay, mixing in fertile soil, adding water, sowing the seeds, and most importantly, decorating. Each team was given different types of seeds and the teachers, who were much more knowledgeable about agriculture, directed the modifications to the gardens to cater to each seed.

After lunch, our communication skills and teamwork were put to the test at the water obstacle course. Divided into our four colour groups, each team had to cross over a 3-meter-wide trench filled with muddy water on one of the nine pathways of choice. You see, King David was in a hiding in a cave on the other side and we, the mighty warriors, had the task to venture out and cross the perilous bridges to bring two cups of water to him.

Immediately we saw how impossible it was to cross each wooden obstacle alone, and it would require extensive teamwork to bring the cups of water across. There were unstable seesaws, tightropes, and wooden planks too short to span the gap. We struggled and stumbled our way through but in the process, we learned to listen and share ideas, appreciate each individual's strengths, and support each other in our weaknesses.

Even more, we built relationships and trust. A lesson that I personally learned from the experience is that interactions are enjoyable for both parties when there is an opportunity to reciprocate. We pulled each other out of the trench, they supported planks for me to cross, I stood in the trench supporting my partner across a tightrope, they came up with excellent strategies I would never think of. If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.

After dinner and more worship, some of the kids shared about their camp experience including the things they learned, things that resonated with them, and most importantly the relationships they developed. It was a time of mutual encouragement.

It was the last night of camp, so of course, a bonfire was in order. We all gathered to pray over each other and pray into the future. Once the bonfire was lit, what I can only describe as the most wholesome dance experience began. Pumping Cambodian music, being taught the moves by the kids and teachers, and dancing circles around the fire. Once the fire died down we made our way back to our rooms dancing, singing, and full of joy.

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