RICHMOND, TEXAS, August 23, 2012 (Indo-American News, by Puja Chugh): I slowly removed my sandals and gazed at the white tables smothered in what looked like hundreds of shoes. As I approached the “sign in” table, I managed to put on an uneasy smile as I anxiously looked around for my friends. It was my first year at Hindu Camp and I had no idea what to expect.
I was worried about not knowing enough about Hinduism to be included in discussions, or worse, what if everyone made fun of me? “What if I was supposed to know everything about the Ramayan and bhajans and aarti? And educations? What are those? Does that mean people can call on me for answers? I can’t have that. I cannot believe I just strolled into a Hindu camp knowing just what I was taught in grade school; some of these kids have been coming since 2nd grade!” These thoughts swarmed around in my head as I sought out a familiar face for comfort.
Luckily, I found that comfort sooner than I thought. As I approached the crowd of high school campers, little did I know that in this group I would find brothers, sisters, and life-long friends. Not only had camp rewarded me with new friends and memories, but it also revived my eagerness to learn more about my religion and customs. I had been given the opportunity to ask questions, seek meaning, and develop an understanding through deep conversations.
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