A Force of Nature

This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.
 
I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community, and as long as I live it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can.
 
I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no “brief candle” for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.  
~ George Bernard Shaw


This quote, by a self-proclaimed atheist, was the only thing on the “Big Green Board” when I first started employment at Moon Beach back in 2002. It was a leftover handout from the Wild Winter Women’s Weekend that Margaret Brubaker had just completed. It resonated deeply with me and I have quoted it often. Frankly, it’s been a guide for my vocation. The journey from there to here, has been an amazing ride, and along the way I have learned most clearly that it “isn’t about me.”

What it is about … is you. Your relationship with United Church Camps, Inc. (UCCI). Your trips to Moon Beach. Your experiences at Daycholah Center. Your centering places in the middle of life’s chaos. Your events. Your children’s events. The domestic mission in which you volunteer. The place you find yourself again and again.

This first newsletter in many years is focused on the quest to preserve those relationships. We want to make you aware of new events. We want you to see the many ways to volunteer and support Outdoor Ministry. We want you to know that these “places set apart” want to be with you and your families for years to come … and to do that we need your help.
 
The purpose of Daycholah Center and Moon Beach is indeed a mighty one. Yesterday, today, tomorrow … your people are here. When you pause from the chaos of life with us, your God can be heard clearly saying that you are loved!

Peace,
Glenn