A time for our three questions now more than ever.
Each night at Owatonna, after lights out but before everyone falls asleep, counselors and campers go around the cabin answering our three questions. They are:
- What was a highlight of your day?
- Who or what are you grateful for or who would you like to thank?
- What opportunities did you have to do good for others today?
These questions are one of the most important ways we keep track of how we are expressing the pillars of Owatonna - Be the Best, Love One Another, Give Gratitude, and Have Fun. Answering these questions ensures that we are keeping these high goals in the forefront of our thought on a daily basis.
This summer we won’t be at camp together to ask and answer these questions. But, I would argue that it is vitally important that we make this a part of our daily routine.
Right now, the regular flow of life seems interrupted. Whether it is the world’s response to covid-19, issues of racial inequality, or seemingly insurmountable political division, it feels like many things are on pause or filled with uncertainty. With this comes the temptation to be afraid, be frustrated, or to feel helpless or hopeless. Our three questions can be a big part of the solution.
What was a highlight of your day?
This question encourages us to acknowledge the good that is going on in our lives. It gives us daily proof of God’s love and care for us and acknowledging this helps break the pull towards cynicism and hopelessness.
Who or what are you grateful for or who would you like to thank?
This question turns thought outwards and shines light on others. Whether or not we actually do thank the person, which I strongly encourage doing, this acknowledgment helps to unify us and recognize the value in each other - something the whole world, and especially our country could use more of right now.
What opportunities did you have to do good for others today?
This question keeps us focused on giving. What can I do to make the world (or my community, or even just my home) a place more filled with love? Am I recognizing these opportunities as they come and am I acting on them?
Spending some time each evening thinking about these questions, either individually or as a family, is a great way to uplift our thought and stay focused on God’s goodness which is providing us all with the solutions to all the seeming problems of life. Please, for our world’s sake, join me in spending time with these three questions each evening. We need them more than ever!
By Reid Charlston, Owatonna Director