Beijing Summer Camp 2007
Thoughts & Commentary
Now that the camp has concluded, these are some of the closing thoughts of camp leaders, CCAA officials, parents and children.
A Parent's Perspective
by Kathy Clark
I believe that I am probably one of the few single ladies to have the privilege to adopt three beautiful Chinese children. My son Daniel participated in the CCAA-sponsored Beijing Summer Camp.
Daniel has had a quieter return than some of the other parents have described. He has talked for some time now about becoming a surgeon and more specifically an orthopedic surgeon. He now says that "Dr. Daniel" inspired him in China. Perhaps my Daniel can volunteer to help in some way in China later in life.
I asked Daniel if visiting the orphanage made him want us to adopt another child. That is always on my mind. He said that really it just made him want to return and help. He talked the most about his joyful day with the family. He talked about the food he ate and how much he enjoyed the fresh fruits and dumplings.
He felt close to the Chinese counselors and confidently says he understands the adoption process after touring the CCAA building and learning from the staff. He liked everything about the camp and wishes he could attend again. we do not hesitate to recommend this incredible, extraordinary camp to all adopted Chinese children.
The ending of the camp is sad for both of us. We were so focused on it and I was very thrilled that Daniel could attend. Going back to school will probably seem very ordinary after these experiences. I prayed with him tonight that he would be motivated to do this because he cannot go to the next steps in life until he walks in these steps. He will really be fine. We all will. I also thought of the Chinese officials. I can tell that they truly love the children and enjoyed them. Perhaps they had no idea that they would feel this close to the children. I am sure that they have felt some sadness as they adjust to their many daily responsibilities without the campers.
Editor's Note: the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal ran a nice article about Daniel Clark's camp experience.
The China Initiative is a bold endeavor to benefit children in Chinese orphanages, children who have been adopted from China, and adoptive families. It is also an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen the bond families and children feel to China.
Click here to learn more about the China Initiative.