A Short Meeting with Lasting Impact

Hello, I’m Eun Jae Kim and this was my first year participating in the YANA camp. To be honest, I had no idea what kind of commitment I was getting myself into in the beginning. I decided to participate solely because I enjoy being around kids. When I arrived at Dongmyung (DM), I was worried if I would be able to get along with the camp members. The worry was even amplified as I realized that everyone had known each other for years, and I was a stranger to everyone. Surprisingly, the concern disappeared in just a day. The kids approached me first, and soon after, I found myself joking with people and becoming a member of YANA.

I have to say, the camp was physically challenging. However, I was able to get through it with the presence and help of everyone at the camp, which was how I was able to stay till the Gangneung trip. The mental and spiritual happiness overruled my physical fatigue. The time with every individual at the camp was profound and I could not believe how strong the attachment I could make with another in just two weeks.

Coincidentally, I happened to get placed in the Bible station. Although I was in the position of teaching, I was actually learning alongside the children. I don’t really know God yet, but the camp prompted me to engage more with the subject. The fact that I was able to join the YANA camp and encounter this relationship seems to have some kind of indescribable meaning.

I am truly thankful that I got to encounter such a genuine and authentic relationship built on trust. I respect everyone at YANA and Dongmyung who have worked to make this happen from such a long distance. I hope to be part of this relationship as long as possible and witness all the happy and sad moments together. I want to see Dongmyung kids grow and flourish.

Eun Jae Kim