At age 1, I learned that the Chicago Cubs is the best franchise in all sports. As my aunt cradled me back and forth, she explained why the Cubs are the best and why they have not won a World Series in such a long time. She taught me to believe and that someday the Cubs will win the World Series.
At 4, I learned that Crayons make you sick if you eat them (Especially the green ones).
At 5, I learned that Michael Jordan was hands down the best basketball player to ever play the game. He had the jump shot, the swagger, the height, the skill, and most important he had the confidence to succeed.
At 9, I learned not to take family for granite. I have always and always will love my family to death, but after the passing of my grandmother, I learned that losing someone you love is the worst feeling in the world. I wish I could have one more minute with her.
At 10, I learned that Camp Horseshoe is my favorite place in the entire world. I came back from Horseshoe with friends from all over the world and a huge smile on my face.
At 13, I learned what becoming Bar Mitzvah meant. I learned that I am responsible for my actions and that I can now consider myself an adult. My Torah portion was long and challenging, but it taught me what the Jews went through in Egypt and how they persevered through all obstacles.
At 14, I learned how to survive in the wilderness. At camp, I learned how to make a one-match fire, pitch a tent, catch a fish, and how not to tip a canoe. These skills taught me to take a step away from my comfort zone and try something new. I love my mom’s eggs, toast and chocolate milk for breakfast, but eating a half serving of oatmeal and an orange then canoeing for 18 miles is what life is really all about. I wouldn’t say I was miserable at the time, but I wasn’t too happy. Looking back on the trip, I learned valuable lessons and have a sense of accomplishment as well.
