I was determined not to go to Blind Camp as a counselor. First of all, it would take up two whole weeks of my precious vacation! However, the true reason was the huge responsibility and the reality of dealing with blind people for the first time. Somehow my persuasive friend got me to willingly accept. And before I knew it, I was on my three-hour road trip to the tropical, beautiful, and pleasant city of Corpus Christi. Till this day, going to Blind Camp as a counselor was one of the best experiences of my life because it helped me be the eyes of the blind, I developed great friendships, and I learned what true happiness is.
I never thought I would have to give detailed descriptions of everything I saw and become the "eyes" of another. The thought of doing this for the first time scared me. My hands felt clammy, my heart was beating fiercely, yet somehow against my will my lips were uttering, "Sure, Laurie I"ll go." The worst thoughts raced through my mind. Would I accidentally say the wrong thing or unintentionally insult them? There was no time for answers, for I found myself already cheerfully greeting the campers into the camp and literally showing them around the church fellowship hall, kitchen, and bathrooms, including the twelve silvery metal bunk beds in a 30 X 20 room which we would all have to share. Their tiny childlike expressions and laughter melted my heart. Their shut and sometimes open eyes flickered in the darkness. I remember saying, "Sure, no problem I"ll take you to the kitchen, just hold onto my arm. Slowly we"ll walk down the red carpeted stairs and then we"ll turn to our left at the glass door." Sometimes I was asked, "What does the beach look like?" and at that moment I knew my purpose to become a child's eyes.
It's funny how sometimes friendships develop when you least expect it and in the oddest circumstances. Before I knew it, the two fun packed weeks filled with kayaking, fishing, arts and crafts and talent shows had soared by in less than a blink of an eye and suddenly I was heartbroken.
