Director's Corner, Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Where there is desire, there is gonna be a flame
Where there is a flame, someone's bound to get burned
But just because it burns doesn't mean you're gonna die
You've gotta get up and try, try, try
Gotta get up and try, try, try
Gotta get up and try, try, try

One of the greatest gifts camp gives children is the opportunity to take healthy risks. Every day at Beber, campers are encouraged to try something they haven't done before, whether it's climbing a little higher on the rock wall, waterskiing for the first time, auditioning for the musical, making a new friend, or simply asking a question when they're unsure of the answer. None of these moments are about being perfect. They're about having the courage to try.

In today's world, many young people worry that mistakes will define them. At camp, we try to teach a different lesson: failure isn't something to fear; it's often the first step toward growth. Some of the biggest smiles I see don't come from getting something right the first time. They come after a camper falls, gets back up, tries again, and realizes they can do something they never thought possible. Confidence isn't built by avoiding challenges; it's built by meeting them.

Today's trip to the water parks beautifully illustrated this. Some campers raced to the tallest slides without hesitation, while others stood at the top taking a deep breath before finally deciding to go. Both moments represent success. Healthy risk-taking isn't about who goes first or who goes the biggest. It's about healthily stretching beyond what feels comfortable and discovering what's possible.

Makor and Ramot campers spent the day at Mt. Olympus, where they raced on roller coasters, floated along the lazy river, and cooled off in the wave pools. Laughter and excitement filled the park as campers encouraged one another, took on new attractions, and made the most of every moment together.

With its incredible mix of thrilling rides and exciting water slides, Mt. Olympus is more than just a fun destination—it's a place where campers have the opportunity to build confidence and resilience. Whether it was a camper's first roller coaster or they were ready to tackle the biggest ride in the park, each challenge was a chance to be courageous, step outside their comfort zone, and discover what they were capable of. Every ride was a reminder that growth comes from trying something new, and that the greatest sense of accomplishment comes from embracing the journey, not just the outcome.

Meanwhile, our Kesher campers had an amazing adventure at Noah's Ark, the largest water park in the country. From towering slides to splash zones and relaxing pools, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Whether they were seeking thrills or simply soaking up the sunshine with friends, the day was filled with smiles, teamwork, and unforgettable experiences. It was wonderful to see our campers building friendships, encouraging one another, and creating memories that will last long after the summer ends.

As you may have seen on our Instagram story, we began this morning with cinnamon rolls for breakfast! Campers then enjoyed packed lunches with sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips, and juice at the parks. We wrapped up the day with pizza for dinner at both parks.

With everyone back from the parks safe, happy, and cozy in bed, tonight is also Recharge Night for our staff. Every counselor is on camp tonight, getting a good night's sleep before another busy stretch ahead. We ask a lot of our staff, and just as we encourage campers to challenge themselves, we also believe that taking care of yourself is part of being your best for others. A well-rested counselor brings more energy, more patience, and more joy to each day, creating the kind of environment where campers feel safe enough to take those healthy risks themselves.

At Beber, we hope campers leave with more than great memories. We hope they leave believing that growth begins just outside their comfort zone, and that some of life's greatest rewards start with two simple words: "I'll try."

Peace, Love, 3BC,
Michael

Yesterday's song was "Three Little Birds" by Bob Marley & The Wailers. Congratulations to our correct answers:

• Barri Bate
• Nicole Jamison-Dinowitz
• Jenny Wood
• Amy Bloomberg
• Jessica Fonoroff

Can you name the artist behind "Try?" Send your guess to trivia@bebercamp.com, and I'll reveal the answer in tomorrow's blog.