Goodbye… until next time!

After campers wowed the audience with their outstanding performances in the much-anticipated talent show, campers, counselors and staff prepared for the last evening of laughter and good memories at Camp Ayandeh 2009. The night consisted of dancing ‘til three in the morning, enjoying each other’s company and fully soaking up our final hours together at camp. The night ended bittersweet as campers headed back to their cabins to sleep.

On Sunday morning after packing our belongings and enjoying the slideshow of pictures from the week’s activities, we spent the next few hours saying our goodbyes (we all know how long it takes Iranians to say goodbye!) and fitting in as many hugs as possible. We exchanged phone numbers, took even more pictures, and began talk of reunions in each region of the country. As buses arrived to take the first group of campers to the airport, emotions were running high and the tears began to flow.

It is barely enough to say that this year’s camp has surpassed the expectations of both staff and campers alike. After a week at camp, each camper left with a better understanding and appreciation for their Iranian-American culture, a newfound desire to take on leadership roles in their own communities, and a number of beautiful new friendships. We also can’t deny the overpowering effect campers continue to have on the staff and counselors, as we continue to grow and learn from them every year. We could not have been more impressed with the educated and gifted group of campers that we received. A tight-knit community was created in Hinsdale, Massachusetts, one that we all share and will cherish for a long time to come. Once again, a memorable Camp Ayandeh proved to be the “highlight of the summer” for everyone.