By Sam “Skelly” Kelly

The theme for this Shabbat is overcoming a challenge. That theme is familiar to us here. In previous summers we have used our ability to persevere as a marker of growth. That has not changed but some of the difficulties we’ve faced have. This summer has been unprecedented as has the time between now and when we were last here in 2019. 

I wanted to take this opportunity to recognize the resolve of all of you. 

To the pro staff: You were all faced with the monumental task of figuring out not only how to open this magical place during these trying times, but also how to run it once we got underway. We are able to be here today, in this place, because of you. 

To the leadership team: For almost all of you this is a new role. A role where you are without a partner and are without the typical shadowing experience that is being an assistant in a prior summer. To show up this summer for this job takes courage and immense bravery. For those who have done this before, you have helped guide and mentor one another while not being fully sure yourselves of what’s ahead. You’ve exemplified true belief and trust. 

To the staff: I’m not quite sure saying this can ever make it feel tangible, but you are the most critical part of this community. You are the ones who make this place magical. It is all of you who create the love, foster the bonds, and facilitate the growth our campers experience. To do this while traversing young adulthood is so incredibly impressive. I hope that each of you can reflect on how much you’ve given this place this summer and recognize that you’re doing great work in the face of adversity. 

Finally, to the campers: We are all so proud of you. For being here, for trying, for trusting us, and for loving this place. Your young selves have been put through a lot, yet you looked truly difficult times in the eyes and didn’t give up. Your resilience and determination has filled us with pride and fulfillment. For some, this summer was a shot in the dark while for others you knew this was exactly what you needed. No matter your stance, as I said, we are all so very proud of you. 

This community gets to enjoy this beautiful weather in this beautiful space because there is a true desire and achievement to push through the challenges we face. I hope you are all proud of yourselves and what you are accomplishing.

Sam Kelly, known at camp as “Skelly”, is the K’Far Noar Unit Head this summer. He is from Somerset, NJ. This is his 13th summer at Harlam. Some of Skelly’s interests and hobbies include sports, history, and spending quality time with friends and family.