Self Inspiration Camp

A very special event called Self-Inspiration Camp was held on the weekend of September 31st and October 1st, 2006. YAD LA was honored to have trainer Jian lead this camp. Mr Jian invited several senior members of YAD LA to join him and designed a series of adventure-based experiential curriculum for all southern California YAD members, including Hsi Lai, South Bay, and San Diego chapter.

The event began on the grass field at Whittier Narrows Park. In the short introduction of camp rules, Mr. Jian asked every participant to do one simple thing: if the youths agree with Mr. Jian, or each other’s opinions, the youths will show a “thumbs-up” gesture and speak out loud “I agree” to show that they paid attention and heard what was discussed, and agreed with the conclusion. Throughout the two day event, everyone indeed executed this action very well and demonstrated how much each and every youth wanted to better themselves.

Throughout the two days event, the youths have learned from the activities and games to let go of their ego, listen, and respect other people’s opinions, and coorporate with each other to overcome challenges and to achieve the team’s goal. At the end of the second day, each participants shared what they have learned: if everyone only accepts only one’s own opinion, then the team will collapse. However, if everyone will listen to each other’s opinion, try to organize these opinions and cooperate, the power this team will demonstrate will truly be amazing.

When concluding the event, Mr. Jian also encouraged these youths to take what they have learned in these two days and apply these experiences to school, work, family, or any other groups. He believes that the youths will better themselves by doing so, and he will then come back next year to take the youths to more awesome adventures and challenges.