The attitudes we hold have a significant impact on what we think, feel, and do — including how we relate to others and care for nature. As part of our curriculum, we will explore attitudes that help us better learn, grow, and work together — and examine cultural attitudes that have resulted in harm to human beings and the natural world.

One example? “Happiness is getting what I want!” Where might this attitude lead? What behaviors might it encourage or block?

How different it could be to hold the attitude, “Happiness arises from being true to myself and feeling inspired to learn, connect with others, and be part of this beautiful, natural world. “

Scientists agree: nature offers us a complex, cooperative model of existence, not a competitive one! Through games, role-playing, and other fun activities, campers will develop skills for building creative, effective teams that mirror the cooperative models and ecosystems present in the natural world.

Core principles we will explore include:
The balance of directive and receptive energies in nature and within ourselves
Finding balance in groups
Creative solution-finding using the “wise view.”

Our fieldwork will deepen the conversation about balance through hands-on learning in the outdoors.

Together, campers will explore leadership through the synthesis of individuality and interconnection. Key questions and definitions we will explore include:

How do we navigate the challenges without becoming overwhelmed? How do we figure out what is our part to play?
What is wisdom?
What is the difference between acting from wisdom versus from a gut feeling or emotional reaction?
What does it mean to want the best for ourselves and others — and what does it require us to do?