Today was mostly pretty slow, though I still managed to walk at least double what I usually do at home. I was up by 6 am and headed to breakfast shortly after that, but on the way back to camp I stopped at the campsite of the young men that we had helped last night. Both of them were doing well, as was their friend who had visited the hospital the previous evening, and who had returned to their site around midnight. We also discussed some issues that they were having with transportation, since some of the scouts with disabilities could not walk the long distances that are normally expected of able-bodied troops. That conversation led to a discussion with some of our subcamp Commissioners and another trip to their campsite, but everything seems to be sorted out at present.

I made a trip up the hill past our dining hall for a group picture with our Delta 2 subcamp staff, but other than that I mostly just had a ministry of presence, meaning that I sat in a place where folks could see me. I did give a few folks directions and answered a few questions, but really not a lot else. The most significant conversation was with a Scoutmaster who is aware that a scout at home, who is in the same troop as one of the scouts that is here, was in and accident and is not expected to live. We discussed how the scout that is here might deal with grief or other big emotions and how we might be able to support him when the news settles. Nothing has happened yet, but we are preparing a path in case it does.

This evening, I am currently sitting in the Delta Medical MASH hospital provided by the North Carolina and West Virginia National Guard (and supported by other National Guard troops from around the country). I am working the late shift from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm supporting both the staff and patients in whatever way I can. Once again, often I am just a visible presence so that they know I am available if they need anything. I have spoken to several patients and check on the staff at various locations periodically. Soon I will say goodnight until I return for another shift later in the Jamboree.

Once again, let’s plan to meet back here tomorrow.

Blessings,

Pastor John