As we approach our final Shabbat at Camp, we look back and reflect on an impactful and meaningful summer. Our summer theme was Etz Hayim Hi—It is a tree of life for those who cling to it.
Each time that we gather for our Torah service, we recite these words from this week’s parsha, Veatchanan:
וְאַתֶּם֙ הַדְּבֵקִ֔ים בַּיהֹוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֵיכֶ֑ם חַיִּ֥ים כֻּלְּכֶ֖ם הַיּֽוֹם׃
“While you, who held fast to the Eternal your God, are all alive today.”
As Moses speaks to the Israelites and recounts their journey, he reminds them of the mitzvot they have been commanded to follow. Those who remain faithful to God’s teachings will enter the Land of Israel, and once there, they must continue living by those values in order to truly thrive.
The Torah gives us a moral framework for living. It is much more than a list of dos and don’ts. It teaches us how to act with integrity, compassion, humility, and responsibility. While in the pasuk (verse) quoted above, Moses is speaking about the physical survival that resulted from refusing to follow false gods, he is also reminding us that those who “hold fast” to these teachings will be spiritually alive and fulfilled.
At Camp, we practice these values every day. We learn how to live in a kehillah (community), how to use our words with care, how to show derech eretz (respect), and how to be there for one another, all within the framework of mitzvot. Shabbat, kashrut, praying in a minyan, caring for the environment, telling the truth, and practicing humility are not simply traditions, they are the foundation for living meaningful, purpose-filled lives.
This past week (and this kayitz) has been filled with both joy and meaning. From Yom Sport to commemorating Tisha B’Av, to creative yamim meyuchadim (special days), an energetic Rikkudiyah (Dance Festival), and uplifting musical tefillah, our campers have continued to experience the richness of Jewish life. Through each of these moments, they have lived the mitzvot and strengthened the values that help them grow into committed and caring Jews.
As Machzor Bet (Second Session) comes to a close, I hope our campers carry these lessons with them until we gather again. May the friendships they have strengthened, the values they have practiced, and the joy they have experienced continue to enrich the months ahead. Like the Tree of Life, may we all continue to hold fast to our tradition and to the Ramah Darom community that makes each kayitz so meaningful.
Thank you for sharing your children with us and for partnering with us in another unforgettable summer. It has been a privilege to watch our campers learn, grow, and create lasting memories. They have done so thanks to the very hard-working tzevet (staff) of the entire camp. If you are moved by their efforts, we invite you to make a donation to honor them through our Staff Appreciation Fund. We will have special treats for these last few days to thank them.
