I grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon. When I was younger my parents sent me to summer camp. It was only a week long, but it was my favorite week of the year. YMCA Camp Silver Creek in Silverton, Oregon is one of the most magical places on earth.
Recently a friend told me, “Man, I’m not religious, but my heaven would be something pretty similar to Silver Creek.” I couldn’t agree more. It’s hard to talk to others about camp. It’s a shared experience with a certain group of people, whether we were there at the same, or not. We still have this bond that will never break.
I met some of th
e most influential people at camp. They helped shape my life as a young adult. I believe working at summer camp helped bring me out of my shell, it gave me confidence and the outlet to be silly.
I made at least one connection that has stuck with me for 12 years now. We’ve been through a lot together and both been there for one another through numerous events and changes in our lives and here we are 12 years later, living in the same city for the first time ever.
Through friends, relationships, Military school, family legal issues, joining the military, being diagnosed with arthritis, multiple tours in Iraq, being hospitalized for a fatal blood clot we’ve been through a lot together. 12 years later Nate and I find ourselves living 5 minutes from one another for the first time in our lives. 
This kid holds a pretty big place in my heart. No matter how far we are, we always seem to keep in touch. It may be a few months before we check in, but we always do.
Nate doesn’t know this, but he’s gotten me through a lot of things in my life. He’s had a pretty big impact on me.
To you Nathan Paul Smith- Thank you for always being there for me, and most of all supporting me. I can’t believe it’s been 12 years. But I’m so thankful to still have you in my life. Thank you for being an amazing friend.
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