Being a camp counselor at ALC has taught me to embrace the most authentic version of myself.  At Alford Lake, I get to challenge myself in new ways and fail without ridicule. At camp, I get to stand in front of 200 other people, perform the goofiest skits, and hear a crowd erupt in cheers when I am through.  At camp, I feel as though I can share my thoughts with anyone and feel understood and loved.  At camp, I can laugh and cry so hard that my stomach starts to hurt and I have to leave the room to calm down.  At camp, I get to play outdoors every single day!  And I mean, really play!  It is this environment that accepts my "true" self and teaches me to be the best leader that I can be.  I will be forever grateful to ALC for the confidence it has given me and the sunlit memories that I get to carry around for the rest of the year.