Boot Camp

As the Believers Boot Camp approaches, I am reminded of the wonderful things that have taken place at the camp. Every year the camp host almost three hundred teens from different parts of the world and from all walks of life. It’s an arena that allows teens to face the reality of who they are. A camp that strips them of their past, challenges them to move forward, and most importantly discovering a mighty God who forgives and saves! I know this, because I was that teen. My name is Rachel Moriel, and for the past nine years I’ve had the privilege in participating in this event. Every summer from the time I was 13 to 18 I was a Boot (participant). My first year at camp was surprising. Because I grew up in church and had good parents who gave me a moral foundation, I felt I didn’t need to change. I knew about God and thought that as long as I was good and stayed out of trouble, I was alright. How quickly I discovered I was completely wrong. All my "teachings" since childhood, were just that- teachings. It made me think I was better than others because I already knew right from wrong. But I was brought to my knees when I realized my own heart was cold and I was living a lie. My selfish lifestyle spoke loudly as I realized I only cared about myself, wanted to be like my friends, and desired nothing of God and only what the world had to offer. But on a Tuesday night in 2003, I had an encounter with God and he showed me who I was. I was ready to change and more than anything I needed to change. At the end of the night a counselor named Nora prayed with me and led me to Christ. I left different, free of my past. I was given the chance to start over because I had been forgiven. Throughout my years as a Boot in the boot camp I have learned to work as team, overcome fears and push through obstacles while learning to encourage others. The Drill Instructors took sincere interest in my life challenging me to become a better teen, a better woman. At 15, I attended the camp with my younger brother. One particular Drill Instructor DI Yo took us aside and expressed the importance of praying for each other. Little did I know how right she was until years down the road when my younger brother was bound by alcohol and drugs. There were many nights I didn’t know where he was, and those words spoken about prayer were all I remembered. So I would pray. And When I was 18, I felt like I was carrying the weight of many failures; my mind was bombarded with discouragement and worry. DI Sandoval helped me understand that life is a fight. She told me no matter what happens we cannot give up. Her words stick with me to this day. Everything at this camp is if for the sole purpose of leading youth to Godliness and righteousness. Now, as an adult I continue to make it a priority to go back to this camp as a counselor. The difference it made in my life has compelled me to serve with those who once served me. So when I arrive now as a counselor and put on my red shirt, or talk with the teens, or lead an activity I am not merely serving from my own but with the understanding of sacrifices made by those who once served me. What an Honor it is.