Camp Pasquaney Tree Talks and Chapel Talks

In his Tree Talk, Rabbit Barnes shares the story of the Christmas Truce of 1914, an example of people setting aside differences to come together in the name of fellowship and peace. He connects this to opportunities at camp to get to know people from all walks of life, and to sow acts of kindness and friendship that very well may turn into lifelong bonds. Rabbit is in his third summer on the Pasquaney Council. He leads the sailing program as "Commodore," co-directed the Trustee's Weekend Play (performed last night), and perhaps most importantly, serves as our Dutymeister!

Rich DeSalvo highlights a recent Sixth Walk hike up Mt. Plymouth, introduces the concept of a moral compass, and speaks about the courage of umpires, detailing the story of Armando Galaragga's "28-out perfect game."

In his Chapel Talk last Sunday, Mr. Michael called on campers and counsellors to embrace their sincere, earnest selves, and rise above the cynicism that circulates throughout our world today, particularly online.

In his Tree Talk on Friday, Bo Turnage reflected on some of the moments from his camper years that seemed inconsequential at the time -- a story in a Chapel Talk about courage, a tense doubles final tennis match, a shared sunset with his expedition on top of Mt. Liberty -- but in fact resurfaced later in life, helping to guide him in tough moments and support those around him. His talk served as an important reminder that finding happiness and fulfillment through indirection by immersing yourself in the moment is just as important to our growth as sowing acts intentionally. Bo is in his second season as a counsellor, where he leads our tennis program and resides in Jackson.

In Sunday's Chapel Talk, Townley reflected on what makes Pasquaney special and urged us not to take our one wild and precious summer for granted. What he didn't mention was how fortunate we are to have a servant leader like him among us. Townley leads the Crew program, canoeing expeditions to Lake Umbagog, and myriad Nature "species" and Star Walks, modeling joy and wonder for the natural world and the unique strengths each of us possesses.

In Friday's Tree Talk, Pip Carr spoke with the camp about social media's influence on our thoughts and feelings, the value of living in the present moment, and encouraged us to be loving.

This is Pip's fifth summer at Pasquaney. He works in the Shop and lives with his family in the Stanwood Cottage. He is the founder and director of The Guild Experience, an education project for thirteen to fifteen-year-olds based in the Cotswolds, UK.

Mr. Michael shares a pivotal moment in his career when his integrity was tested, and reflects on the significance of honesty and truth in our lives.

Listen to Mr. Michael's second Chapel Talk on fear and overcoming obstacles, delivered the Sunday before Expeditions.

A community is strengthened when it comes together to reflect on its values and practices. One way Pasquaney does this is through weekly Tree Talks and Chapel Talks. In a Tree Talk, a counsellor draws on their experience to explain a life lesson from which they think campers will benefit.

Mr. Michael's first Chapel Talk of the 2024 season.