I spent last week back at Procter for Youth Camp Week 1. Since I went last year, handing over my phone wasn’t a brand-new experience for me, but it’s still wild to imagine completely disconnecting when you’re used to keeping track of everything and staying in constant touch with everyone at home.
But honestly? Just like last summer, once the phone was gone, it was such a relief.
Without a screen to check, everything changed. Nothing was being recorded for a story or talked about over text; we were all just completely in the moment. My main focus was just being at camp, instead of worrying about what I was missing online. During FOB (Flat on Back) time, instead of scrolling, we actually talked, made friendship bracelets, did henna tattoos, or just caught up on sleep. You aren’t distant when you’re forced to look at the people right in front of you.
My absolute favorite memory from the week was taking a paddleboard out on Lake Leo. Everyone else was using canoes, but the paddleboard was so much better. It was incredibly peaceful to just navigate out there and sit right in the middle of the lake, completely surrounded by water and quiet. It was the perfect place to just think.
The evenings were just as memorable, especially when we all gathered together. There were so many camp songs, but the one that completely stuck with me was “Light the Fire.” The melody is so pretty, and sitting there singing it with everyone made me realize how tight-knit our camp community had become.
Leaving Procter, I’m glad to have my phone back, but I’m definitely holding onto that feeling of just being present. It was a week of pure camp—and absolutely nothing else.
Jane Logan
