My days ahead

              During camper arrival, I met my missionary Grace. From the moment we introduced ourselves, we had an instant connection. I told her about my grandpa passing away and she was very caring about the situation. The first night of camp was very scary for me. I had a nightmare about my grandpa and I woke up in the middle of the night not sure who to talk to. I went back to sleep and in the morning, Grace asked me how I slept. I told her about my nightmare, and she was very warm and friendly about the situation. The next night of camp was better. I had no nightmares about my grandpa. However, the third night of camp I had another nightmare about him. Again, Grace asked me how I slept and again, I answered her by telling her about my nightmare. She told me how sorry she was and she even gave me a hug. That night, we sang a worship song called Goodness of God and I got very emotional. Grace and I developed a system where I would tap her shoulder twice and that meant I needed a hug from her. Her hug was very warm and genuine. Before I went to bed, I had her give me one more big long hug. The fifth night was probably the easiest night of all. I didn't have any nightmares about my grandpa nor did I need to hug Grace.

The Closing Ceremony

              During the closing ceremony, we sung a bunch of worship songs. I sat by another missionary named Nora. At one point, she asked me if I was okay and I told her I was. When we started singing the song Zephaniah 3:17, I started getting emotional. Another missionary named Eunji asked if I wanted to sit with her and Grace. I quietly said yes. She took my hand and guided me up to where she and Grace were. I don't know how I made it up there because my legs were shaking very badly to the point that I thought I wouldn't be able to walk. As soon as I got up by Grace and Eunji, they both put their arms around my shoulders and squeezed me very tight. First, I gave a hug to Grace. She responded with a hug back and a few encouraging words. "It's okay buddy. I'm sorry." Finally, I gave a hug to Eunji. Although she didn't say anything, her hug was very genuine and uplifting!

              I will never forget the friends I made at camp this year, especially Grace who Didn't take my grief for granted. She genuinely loved me for who I was. Thank you Grace for being an excellent missionary!

Zephaniah 3-17 verse  and song

The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."