The Power of One

On the final night of camp, each JC had the opportunity to give a "gift" to the campers; I wanted to share my gift to them with all of you...

            I spent a lot of time thinking about what I wanted to give all of you; many characteristics that I hold important to me have crossed my mind: courage, compassion, determination, volunteering, humility, etc… But then I realized that there is nothing I can give you that you don’t all already have.  For each and everyone of you posses, or at least hold the potential to posses, all these characteristics; especially such a truly amazing group like yourselves. 

            So my gift to you, is yourself.  Each of you are unique in every way, and each of you hold the characteristics to be exactly who you choose to be; and with that you each hold the ability to make any change or difference in the world.  This is a gift that I have been fortunate enough to receive throughout my life from many people, especially my parents.  From the time I can remember my dad always told to be whoever I wanted to be; if there was something I wanted to do, do it and not take no for an answer.  As I got into my teenage years, I ‘m sure there were times he regretted instilling that in me…but overall I think he’s glad and proud that he did.  I can’t thank him enough for that gift because it has allowed me to accomplish the things I have and given me the freedom to be who I am.

            So that it sinks in, let me repeat what I said a few seconds back:  you are who you choose to be.  No one can make you or break you but yourself.  We don’t always get to choose what happens to us, but we do get to choose how we handle each circumstance.  We each take a different path, and we each have our own stories; and it is up to us to use both our blessings and our sorrows, as well as our lessons to make a positive difference and touch the life of another.

            I want to share a quote with you…

            “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine.  It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

            -Marianne Williamson

            You have the power to embrace life, to live everyday to its fullest.  You have the power to be anyone you choose to be, and let the world see that.  You have the power to dream big, and turn those dreams into reality.  You have the power to make a difference in someone’s life, to start a chain reaction.  You have the power to change the world.

            So here is to each and every one of you, and the power of one that each of you holds. 


Power of One - Bomshel