Summer in Camden ends with gratitude
My summer in Camden, Alabama, was nothing short of an adventure. I admit I had no idea what I was signing up for when I took the Living Democracy internship working with Black Belt Treasures, but boy, am I glad that I did!
I am from Homewood, Alabama, a small suburban town outside Birmingham, where everyone knows each other. Coming here, that feeling of community was familiar to me.
But that was one of the only things that was familiar to me. I had read about and learned about rural towns before, but this was my first time experiencing one. It was a big adjustment for me, but it was a change that I embraced because I knew the experience would be worthwhile, and I was right!
Above all, I have loved getting to know everyone here this summer. I have learned so much about you all and even myself. This experience has transformed me in ways I never thought possible, from broadening my perspective on art to deepening my understanding of community.
This is the most significant learning experience I have had thus far, and I swear I will never forget it. By the time you read this, I will have returned to Auburn to complete my final year as an undergraduate student.
With my heart full, I thank you, Camden, for embracing me with open arms. Thank you for speaking with me, educating me, reading and promoting my work, and being a friend. I am emotional writing this final article for you all to read, but I am leaving here feeling grateful and blessed.
Tags: Camden
