As
I reflect on the past summer, it occurs to me that Camp Timanous where I
spend each summer since 2009 and 1962-1978 before that. It has changed
but at the same time the spirit of Timanous has not changed. The people
change a little from year to year and a lot from generation to
generation. The weather and climate is changing from day to day and from
year to year. Some years are more wet where some years, like 2016 the
weather is a perfect balance of rain and warm weather. The activities do
not change much though different counselors bring a different energy to
their craft. More cabins and additions are built, boats are retired and
new boats take their place in the water. The idea of Timanous does not
change. Working and playing outside, no technology, positive role
modeling and praise of a good deed. The community is the key. It is a
thriving positive accepting of differences special kind of place that
makes it something people want to be a part of. A place people want to
come back to as long as they can. There are a lot of choices out there
for boys and young men to do in the summers. But many Timanous alum come
back year after year to be part of the special community of Camp. Body,
Mind and Spirit lives in us and we hold onto it until we can get back
to Raymond Maine and recharge the spirit! I don't know whats in store
for me next summer, but if i can spend it at Camp Timanous that's a pretty
great way to go!
Now I'm painting a series of Batiks to try to capture the spirit of Camp Timanous as it celebrates the 100th anniversary! All the people who have gone there before me, who are there now, and for years to come. I hope these images ring true.