Late last night, I arrived home from an incredible week spent in Colorado with an even more incredible kid from our church. This boy is 8 years old, and his father was killed in action while flying a mission in Iraq a little more than a year ago. We had the opportunity to participate in a pilot program called Modern Day Knights, which is designed specifically for sons of fallen soldiers between the ages of 5-16. To find out more about the mission and purpose of Modern Day Knights, check out their website at www.moderndayknightscamp.org.
The week was spent at a Boy Scout camp called Peaceful Valley, about 30-40 minutes outside of Colorado Springs. The boys had the opportunity to do guy stuff, meet other kids in their situation, and bond with a mentor-type adult. Our days were packed with activities such as canoeing, fishing, archery, rock climbing, obstacle courses, and cook outs. It only rained one day, and so we ended up going to an indoor waterpark near by which ended up being a lot of fun. We slept in tents, and hiked pretty much everywhere that was within decent walking distance. All of the kids bonded very quickly, and I believe some life long friendships were formed over the week.
Participating as a mentor was extremely special for me. I really enjoyed getting to know my camper better, watching him try new things with energy, optimism and a boldness that few of us can claim. Talking to him about his father, and the past year since his death was an educational process for me, and hopefully a healing process for him. Hearing about other campers open up for the first time about their dad was such a testimony on the importance for these kids to have male mentors who can provide a safe environment for these kids to share, cry, and ask questions.
I want to thank all those who made this camp possible, especially Maj. Steve Harold, Journey Chapel, Focus on the Family, and all the other financial contributors. At the same time, I want to encourage everyone to continue to remeber the families of our Armed Forces, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in losing a loved one. Please get involved and make a difference in the lives of these families in one way or another.
Blessings,
Will
Wow. Will, that is awesome. What a blessing and a great opportunity to see the Lord’s love at work. Thank you for going and being a mentor.
What a wonderful ministry. What a blessing to be able to participate. I am sure that the young man you mentored will look back on the experience as one of the special moments in his life. I hope that the sons of all our fallen soldiers/sailor/marines/airmen will have that opportunity. Can’t wait to check out the Modern Day Knights website.
Awesome… loved reading this blog entry. What a great ministry… can’t wait to share with William.