NorCal CI

char-charlene:

C.I. 2011 A Reflection from Within

Personally, I really didn’t know why I was going back to C.I. During spiritual activity they asked if we came here to get spiritually fed, but I had no idea if I went here for the right reason or not. I really didn’t expect this year (last year) to be the way it was. I can honestly say, I’m glad I went. I’m glad I’m going next year. I really did get spiritually fed. I really did learn. I really did change because of what I’ve learned. I have a new perspective, and I’m loving it.
Side note: C.I. is really a place where you can escape. But if there is someone in C.I. who makes you want to stop going, you really have to make peace with them. 

• Interest Group: We were a big group and we actually made our own choreo. I really liked the dance though! Everyone were really good. Unicorns I love them!
• Olympic Fest: The games were hella fun! I love the creative names. I’m glad I was apart of Mulan! Although we didn’t win, we worked as a team. We had spirit and unity. (We should eat with our olympic fest group for lunch or dinnner)
• Family group: My favorite one yet! In general, I’m glad I was chosen to be with the people I was given. The leaders and my brothers/sisters. (I really don’t know what to call them… group-mates? campers?) They really helped me. And I was able to open up. The lesson that was planned had me thinking and relating. I was really struggling with mending friendships but after this, I’m mending all of my broken friendships which is a good feeling. I can now see people in a positive view and not just base them for their appearance. We are all God’s children. And you know, since God made us, we’re beautiful. We’re his beautiful creation. I just hope I keep that mentality and remember that during school & lunch.
• Cultural activity: Silence killed me, man. It was pretty hard to go a night without talking.. But I got through it. Watching those videos really hit me. And I really hope one day I can save a life. It enriched me with problems that I really never paid attention to until now. I’ll be one of the people to stand up for those who aren’t as strong. I’ll stand up for the people who are “weak.” Defending them in anyway I can. 
• Praise and Worship: I loved it so much! I was really into it. haha
• Meal Mixers: They weren’t as creative as last year (but I still got to meet people)
• Cabins: I cannot stress enough on how much I LOVE the cabins. They were close to the buildings, they were near the guys (which I have no problem with that), no walking distance, had a heater, complimentary pillows/blankets, & A BATHROOM. Oh man, I was hella happy. I’m pretty self conscious when it comes to a shower. I had the best roommates and cabin leaders. Funny how Patrice was my group leader, family leader, olympic fest leader, & cabin leader (I’d say she was a cabin leader)
• Banquet: I absolutely love the theme. Although I was bitter at first, it was really good. I loved the table attire & the backdrop. You guys really have outdone yourselves. 
• Friends: I’ve gained so many new friends and I’m thankful to have them in my life. I’m glad I’ve gotten closer to a lot of friends that I’ve drifted from. You know, following new people on tumblr from C.I. & adding people on facebook.
• Mtv night: Oh man, everyones talented! There are rap battles, comedies, singing, poetry etc. It was really fun watching everyone do what they do. 
• Tshirt design: Nice! Loved it. Can’t wait to wear it.

I personally, got out of my shell. I was more outgoing this year, compared to the years before that. Like I said, I’m excited for next year. This year truly did me well.

Heart In Sole. Genuine in Existence. A Reflection from Within