Surf Camp
By Bryan Hehr, Colorado Springs
As I was reading the title and intrduction to this writing opportunity, my mind flashed back to 2003. Growing up in Colorado doesn't allow me to be out in the ocean very often, but during the summer of '03, I went on an incredible adventure. Destination? Oahu, for the Surfing the Nations Surf Extreme summer camp. I found out about the awesomely cheap camp through a series of connections and my best friend and I flew out there for a week to surf and worship God. We were both snowboarders and were fascinated by the lifestyle of all extreme sports. We were quite excited to get our fill of adrenaline while waiting for the next snow season.
When we got out there, the setting was nothing like we had expected (not in a bad way though).Many of our leaders were from Sweden and the other campers were from all over the US and well as quite a few natives of Hawaii. We even had a pro surfer from australia visiting. We slept in tents outside the building and ate food that they had recieved as donations. The week was a blast, trying to surf and hanging out with my best friend as well as all new people. There was something bigger about that trip though.
The trip solidified my walk with God and my enjoyment to go new places and try new things. As we worshipped God in a small room and on the beach and talked in groups, I learned about what it meant to serve God and his beloved people. I learned how to use my passions not just for myself, but for everyone i meet. I now travel to Rwanda and other places to share the blessings I have been given in life. By being changed and transformed in fun settings like this, I have the opportunity to change many lives. Not just the ones in Rwanda, but also those that I live with and spend time with.
But that is not the only way that lives can be changed by surfing. There is an opportunity to influence the lives of those who sitting on their board next to you. A simple and friendly conversaion could inspire them to live for something more than waves. Surfing in other countries provides a great way to relate to people of a different culture, upbringing and even language. It provides a connection point.
Lastly, being in the waves give a whole new perspective on life that changes you. Your no longer connected to technology but to the earth. Distractions and stresses pass away and give way to something new, something more powerful and pure. You are in the mids of something bigger tahn yourself. Waves have to opportunity to bring great fun and joy, but also the power to destroy lives, whether it be a bad wipeout or a Psunami. These are just the ways that come to mind about how surfing can change the worls. I am curious to read others thoughts and writings about this question.
Thank you for being a light to the alternative culture and thank you for taking the time to listen.
Your fan,
Bryan
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