William Penn Life, 2001 (36. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
2001-08-01 / 8. szám
The teens ingored ethnic and cultural differences to make new friends and learn lessons they can now share with others back home. Eric of the United States smiled as he hugged his crossed legs, rocking back and forth on a picnic table bench, saying, "Oh yes, we usually have a slow start, but were usually up till five o'clock in the morning talking and doing our activities." Yes, these people are typical teenagers: slow to rise, but bursting with energy in no time. The activities Eric spoke of are challenging indeed. Jarle of Sweden, Eric and host Tim described a "trust walk" to the camp's fire tower. Campers were blindfolded and led to the tower, trusting their partner to lead them safely through uneven ground and underneath fir trees. Each agreed that the walk was challenging and a lot of fun. Let’s talk about it Discussions are the key element of the activities. Bettina led one discussion on the topic of "Why Boys and Girls Don't Get Along." She gave examples of misunderstandings between the sexes and noted the affect of cultural differences. While visiting France, Bettina observed how people greet one another with a kiss on the cheek. This was not a common practice in Germany, she said. One camper agreed, recalling that during her CISV experience in Sweden, "we were always hugging each other." By participating in these discussions, the CISV campers learn that there are different levels in the process of a growing relationship. Blending different cultures, it is not surprising that there are misunderstandings. Squeezing cream cheese onto bread may not be an ideal breakfast, but the teen campers did manage to feed themselves well enough. Topics discussed are not lighthearted. These adolescents discuss capital punishment, abortion, and immigration. Sometimes the group participates in role-playing and mock trials, based on pertinent issues of the day. This forces them to use their minds, instead of resorting to violence. Topics are universal in nature and are chosen by the camp-goers. "That's what they're here for," Bettina said. "These topics are a challenge." A wall in the Stable Lodge displays quotes handwritten by the CISV participants. They vary from the writings of Shakespeare, to song lyrics from Metallica, to musings from movie character Forest Gump. Inspiring words significant to one young person are passed on for all to see, hoping that they will carry a message. Happy campers Seeing these CISV campers in action, there is little doubt that, for teenagers, they have a great deal of maturity and confidence. "You become addicted to it," said Sara from Egypt in describing CISV. "You just love it so much!" Spaniard Aurora said that her enjoyment came from seeing that "different countries have different points of view." This was Dr. Allen's intent— to appreciate differences. Marte from Norway, as well as other participants, said that they come to CISV camps with an open mind. All agreed that they come to participate and make friends. As one camper pointed out, you don't attend CISV just to have a vacation, rather it is a hands-on, multicultural experience. Marco of Brazil is a recent high school graduate and has been involved with CISV since age 11. He has attended camps in Norway, Denmark, Spain and the United States. He and Bettina noted that English is the spoken language at all CISV camps. Different levels of English are spoken and, for those not as wellversed in the language, this is good practice. For Marco, being a CISV participant brought him out of his shell. "I was very shy, but CISV forced me to speak English and speak with other people. Now I feel very comfortable." Last year Marco was a junior counselor with CISV and plans on studying law in Brazil. But prior to that, Marco wants to work with a social program serving poor neighborhoods. As their departure date from Scenic View and their return to their families drew nearer, the students had mixed feelings—happy that they had this camp experience, but sad to be parting from friends. Bettina descibed the three weeks of camp as "intense." That intensity only served to strengthen the bonds between campers. "Bonding happens here and it is special," Marte said. Terry Himes suggested Penn Scenic View as the site for this CISV camp. A CISV alumnus herself, Terry is an attorney for Tucker Arensberg, a Pittsburgh law firm that provides legal counsel for the WPA. CISV sent an evaluator to Scenic View prior to reserving the site and was highly complementary of the facilities. Resident managerjesse Klink made an all out effort to make the teens' stay comfortable. With over 30 young people from all over the world, running a successful camp required substantial effort from all involved. That effort paid off. As Marte observed, "we're from different cultures and (CISV) makes it easier to act with people from another country. It's all about understanding." [jqi}~| William Penn Lite, August 2001 7
