High School Camp #1 (Day 2)
Sports Day!
This was one of the reasons we came to China, to conduct sports programming as part
of the traditional cultural camp. The youth loved it! And, of course, this is what Mim
does best.
We ran six sports (volleyball, soccer, basketball, ping pong, jump rope, and ultimate
rubber chicken), rotating every 20 minutes. Every youth had a ball, constant motion, no
standing around, quick succession of drills. We did this for 1 1/2 hours and were done
by 10:00 a.m. The temperatures were already close to 90 degree with at least 70%
humidity. Water and adequate hydration has become a major factor to this camp.
Everyone was really into the sports, great enthusiasm. We conduct the sports in the
school complex, where the teachers also live with their children. So, we have attracted
quite a following. Even during the off times, the youth want to play sports.
The small track and field that we thought we could use is all tore up and under
construction. We are innovating, tying nets to trees and drainage pipes and playing in
outside courtyards between buildings.
This afternoon we had craft time. Thanks to our local CMA chapter and Gale
Stringham. Mim refers to you as the Christian motorcycle "gang." It invokes quite the
image in the minds of the youth. We did the angel charm and fruit of the spirit key
chains and animal balloons. I am now a certified mouse-balloon maker.
In the afternoon we did another sessions of sports. This time we played badminton,
beach-ball volleyball, large parachute games, ping pong, and jump rope. Our camp
director, John, asked if we were finished with the sports session, because all the kids
were still playing into rest time. We told him we had officially ended 30 minutes ago.
The youth love it.
We all sweat profusely. We must have gone through 40 gallons of water for 70 people
in one day.
Great discussions are opening, too, as friendships are formed. Many of the Chinese
students have aspirations to study in the United States. Jobs are difficult to find in
China. When asked, we are able to talk openly about The Lord to answer questions.
Many conversations are happening!
Keep praying for grace and favor with the youth and the local authorities, and, for health
and strength. The days are long (like all camps) and with sports activities added, it
makes for exhausting, but fulfilling days. Please pray for healthy stomachs. The change
in cuisine can upset digestive tracts.
Tomorrow the camp may go on a hike into the local countryside. Keep praying!
Blessings,
Jeff & Mim
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