“You have been selected to receive the Citizenship Award of Camp Hagan.”
As a camper starting out in Jr. 1 in 1963 and working my way to Sr. 7 by 1970, I had the opportunity to observe the citizenship ceremony many times. How cool it would be to be tapped by a DP, I thought as a young camper; the emphasis being on simply being chosen- not really considering the meaning behind the award.
“This honor comes to you because you possess those qualities of sportsmanship, leadership, cooperation, and character which together make you an outstanding camper and a fine girl.”
These intangibles were the real power behind the magic of Camp Hagan. Yes, the beauty of the river and the mountains made this place very special. There were unique Hagan traditions and rituals that we all grew to love. But it was the building of character and the many life lessons learned at camp that helped to develop and shape our lives.
“This is a high honor; with it goes a high degree of responsibility.”
Who knew that this simple sentence would have such influence in my life. My approach to life and my work ethic can be traced back to these citizenship qualities. I was the teacher who spent many extra hours at school going above and beyond “required,” and the mom whose 4 daughters always had elaborate themed snacks for preschool (one of my girls asked me why I just couldn’t send in a box of graham crackers like other moms) and home-sewn Halloween costumes. I was the camper crawling under the bunks in my poncho to get all the dust balls before cabin inspection. Camp Hagan will always be a part of me.
“May you live that your life will always reflect these sterling qualities.”