Shalom! Almost every evening at camp, we have a different cabin lead T’fillot (services). Each camper writes a part and reads it before all of camp in between the prayers we say or sing as a community. This way, every camper gets the opportunity to share something of themselves with the wider camp, and to teach the community something about their values, Judaism, or their connection to our prayers. Our cabin services make each of our T’fillot that much more unique and meaningful. —Jacob Kraus, T’fillah Specialist 

Shabbat Evening Service

June 27, 2014

Cabin 9: Letter To My Former Self

Opening Song

L’cha Dodi page 138

Barchu page 146

Dear Abby, It is 2007 and you have just barely survived the 3^rd grade. But, here’s the deal, while that is fantastic and all, the next 7 years of your life are going to be the most insane years yet. You are going to make it to the top of the migdol 7 times, become a national champion drummer, get the assist to win state championship lacrosse game as a freshman, and so many more amazing things. All of these things lead up to a very important part of your life. You’re going to come upon a quote by Richard Bach right before your last summer, as a camper that reads: “Rarely do members of the same family grow up under the same roof.” This quote will then and only then, explain why this magical place called Guciis so special. You only have one month together with these exact same people, in this exact same summer, to have as much fun as possible with them, show them who you really are, and to learn to love them like family. In seven years, your relationship with them will be unexplainable. So, go out there this summer, first year Garin, and every summer after it, and create lasting friendships, memorable impressions, and know that you can do anything (including win gaga with your good arm in a cast). The only people who you will have to thank in the end, is your Guci family. Love, Abi  -Abi Cox

Ma’ariv Aravim page 148

Ahavat Olam page 150

Sh’ma/V’ahavta page 152

Today finally feels how life should be every day. It wasn’t filled with complete happiness or joy. It wasn’t always a peaceful or perfect day. I wasn’t always clean or looking my best. I was left exhausted, not refreshed. But, I woke up energized and ready to start a new day, a little warn out from the previous one. I was next to my friends, in a place where I am comfortable, but where I can always learn something new. I moved myself and was excited for the next thing the schedule threw at me. I smiled, I laughed lots and had spirits; and I had fun. I involved myself and let things happen. I ended the day happy, and with a smile. This is how life should be. Everyday doesn’t have to be pristine or perfect. It won’t be, and life isn’t. But, you can still make it perfect by loving yourself, loving what the day throws at you, and beginning and ending the day with a smile. -Andie Cohen

Mi Chamocha page 158

I have never believed in G-d and I always felt like praying was lying. Thinking this, fake thing for stuff. For a couple years, I even refused to pray. I would just sit there during services and role my eyes. I wish I could go back and tell my past self to pray. Not because I am suddenly religious, but because it would have been so much more enjoyable. I love the way the songs sound, and it always makes me smile to see the hundreds of strangers, old and young, musically talented and not, to join in song together. At Guci, we all sing together and unite in beautiful song and I love the sound. So, for those of you that are bred in services or don’t like praying, try to listen to the music we make, not the things we say. -Maya Gleich

Hashkiveinu page 160

V’shamru page 162

Before Anaf, I always looked up to the Anaf girls and it’s weird to think that I am one of those girls. I remember pretending to be an Anaf girl with my friends in Gezah and Shoresh. We use to dream about all the so called, “amazing things” we would do in Anaf. But, while we were spending that time pretending, we were missing out on all the great things going on in the younger units. Instead of enjoying the present, we were thinking into our future Anaf lives and missed out on life changing moments. Since it’s my last year, I have realized to live with no regrets. Always remind yourself to do the same. –Rebecca Townsend

Amidah page 166

I came to camp for the first time five years ago as a shoresh camper. I have never been more nervous than I was on the first day. Change was hard for me, and the thought of being away from home for a month was terrifying. Coming to camp was the best decision I’ve made. I have made so many incredible memories and amazing friends and sisters that I’ll stay close with forever. I wish I knew how great change is and it’s not as scary as it seems. -Tamar Sher

Shalom Rav page 178

Dear Taylor, Here is a paraphrased version of one of your future’s favorite poem: Wear sunscreen. That is some of the only concrete advice I can give. The rest of my advice has nothing to back it up. Sunscreen has been scientifically proven to help you. My other advice is things that I have no proof for, like staying close to your siblings. They are your best link to your past. Always love your parents, even when they yell at you. Making friends is an art; don’t be afraid to make it an abstract piece. Be nice. Being nice to someone, even just giving them a smile, can change their life. But, so can giving a scowl and being mean. So, pick to right countenance. Write a lot. Writing helps express your thoughts in ways beyond your belief. Read. Poetry is good for the mind. Music and math can also benefit you greatly. Worrying about the future is as effective as trying to solve an algebraic equation by chewing bubble gum. In case of sadness, go to a friend and talk about your feelings. Body images are stupid. You are beautiful. Learn how to spell. It will save you a lot of embarrassment. But seriously, wear sunscreen. Love, Guba

-Taylor Guba

Silent Prayer

Thinking about the past, I know I have done right and wrong. Yet, I wouldn’t change a thing. I have learned to always listen to my parents; they have already lived through their lives. I have realized to be good to your friends, because they will be your shoulder to cry on. Try your best to forgive and forget, it’s a lot easier than holding on. -Gabrielle Stoebick

Aleinu page 586

The Mourner’s Kaddish is about remembrance. It’s also a celebration of life. If you live your life like every day could be your last, you would get a lot done. I know I certainly would. You see, when I was in Shoresh, all I wanted was to be in Gezah. When I was in Gezah, all I wanted was to be in Anaf. I just wanted to grow up. I wish I would’ve made some different choices. I wish I would’ve cherished the many days I spent in Shoresh. When all I needed to remember is that yes, I actually do need to brush my hair every day, my job, and to write home often. I don’t spend every day wishing though. I will do what needs to be done. But first, I’ll take care to remember. -Rebecka Roberts

Kaddish Yatom page 598

Guci has changed my life. I’m sure I’m not the only person who feels this way. I’m usually the kid who feels left out and pulls myself away from everything. Coming to Guci helped me get away from that. I realized what a true home away from home Guci is. I was lucky enough to come only knowing a few people already. But, to have met so many, new, lifelong friends – I couldn’t imagine life without. I have found my second family where I truly feel like I belong. This camp is a true community and I wouldn’t have it any other way. -Rachael Coleman

Oseh Shalom

Oseh shalom bimromav, Hu ya’aseh shalom aleinu

V’al kol Yisra’el. V’imru: Amen.

May the One who makes peace in High Places make peace for us and for all the world. And let us say: Amen.