I was blessed to spend last week on the rabbinic faculty of URJ’s Eisner Camp up in Great Barrington, MA. Anyone who has been to any camp knows the spirit, community, and joy that comes from the sunshine, friendships, songs, and cheers that make up the camp experience. Eisner seamlessly puts Judaism into that mix to create an unmatched joyful Judaism. From evening services on the dock to dancing at Shabbat services; from the moving sight of the campers gathering on Friday night on the hill all dressed in white to their screams of delight during late night Israeli dancing – there is nothing like time at camp.
My joy was doubled because my daughter, Talia, is a camper at Eisner. Seeing her with her friends, watching her help lead services, and dancing with her during song sessions is always a highlight of my summer. It is also a reminder that there is true light and joy in the world, a reminder that Judaism and love of family can serve as the embracing foundation for that light and that joy.
