Vacation. Or Something Like That.

Vacation has come! This week I find myself in Missouri, at a camp ground, in an RV with nine other bodies, by a lake. It’s wonderful. I think. I hope.

Today I was assured I was reaching Hicksville, USA when we passed a local ice cream shop whose lettered sign read, “Obama, yes he can … ruin America”. Samuel posed the logical question, “If a couple from Missouri gets divorced, are they still cousins?” Soon afterward, as we neared Branson, another sign caught my eye. It was a sign for one of the many shows Branson has to offer those who have come to Las Vegas for the elderly. It read, “The New Passion of the Christ: A Musical.” Oh good. I was getting wearied by the tiresome old Gospel. You’d think, after 2,000 years, they’d have come up with a better ending by now; perhaps one in which the hero doesn’t actually die, but rather defeats his oppressors with his rippling muscles and one raised brow. Also, he’d get a hot blonde in the end. And never wear a shirt. Maybe I should go see this show after all.

We dropped the sibs off at camp today, a camp I used to work at and one that holds a dear, dear place in my heart and life. as I walked through the grounds, memories set upon my mind with delight and eagerness. I met many dear friends there and had many “spiritual experiences” there. It’s this second part I’m thinking about tonight. i don’t know that I actually believe in the “spiritual high” of camps or the “mountain top” experiences we claim they produce. I don’t know they are helpful, fruitful, or even good. Many times I have spoken against such experiences, but today I was reminded of my own.

And you know what? They’re not that black and white. They did bear something of fruit in my life. Didn’t they? Or were they just emotions and hormones and the intense summer heat that swayed them both? I don’t know, to be honest. But what I do know is that I can look back at some moments at camp that made me seek God. And maybe that was worth the whole thing.

Anyway, the family’s putting on a movie and I’m going to join. Yes, this is how we camp. In an RV, with AC, watching a DVD on the TV. Perfect.