The Creek

We just returned from football camp.  Not the kind of camp that's at the high school for a few hours a day that lasts for a week.

The kind where the players pack a bag, board a bus, and sleep in cabins.

The kind of camp where the players get away from it all.  The TV.  The city.  The bad influences.  They go to a safe place where practice replaces video games, team building replaces texting, and street lights are replaced by stars.  Sometimes, they leave a home where they don't feel loved and are surrounded by the only family they know.

Ever since my husband started coaching, he has wanted to take his football team away for a camp.  Last year, it finally happened.  He took the team for a four-day, three-night camp about 45 minutes away from the school.  It was an incredible experience.  I wasn't able to join them for the entire camp last year, but this year I did.  It's an experience I do not want to miss.

Actually, I wasn't just there to watch.  I filled water bottles, bandaged (small) cuts, made ice bags, and took pictures and videos.

Last year, after the camp, I realized that this was our - yes I mean our - purpose. Without my support and encouragement, Jason is left to do this alone.  I've realized it is so much more than just about football.  It's about lives.  The lives of these young men.

So, again, I am amazed at the courage and strength of the guys on the football team.  Once again, my vision and purpose are renewed.  Once again, I see the boys with my heart, not my insecurity.  Once again, I realize just how important I am to Jason's calling as a coach.