Every May, like clockwork, it's time to organize Fede e Luce's summer camps—the joy and headache of every Roman summer. This year, a pilgrimage is also happening, and it's eating into the time and energy of people who might otherwise volunteer for camp. The truth is becoming clearer by the day: we won't manage five camps across July and September the way we have before, despite having reserved the houses in advance. So we're trying a different approach. We're gathering a smaller group of friends who don't have time for a full camp but who'd jump at the chance to spend a long weekend together. It's only four days, but we're running it like a real camp—same themes, same circles, everything else. And we're inviting some young people who are eager to come but couldn't find a spot in the three traditional camps we're offering this summer.
They had a wonderful time. They got to taste the joy of a vacation together, even if it was just a few days. For friends who can't take off for eight or nine days, this could be the answer. It's probably something we'll keep considering in years to come—a parallel option alongside the traditional camps, for friends and young people who otherwise couldn't make it happen.
I'll admit, though, I feel a little sorry for anyone settling for a weekend instead of a full camp. Because what I experience every time—the intensity, the uniqueness, the sheer beauty of it—is something I'd regret missing. Yes, there are real logistical hurdles: vacation time, family obligations, scheduling. But here's what happens to me: even when I'm exhausted before camp starts, even when I think I can't manage it, once I'm there, I know I'd regret staying home. The fatigue is real, but it's always overwhelmed by this energy that lifts me up and carries me through the whole next year. This summer, another veteran camper and I watched the young people—thank goodness there are so many—staying up late just for the simple pleasure of being at camp, the way we did at twenty. And every time I come home from summer camp, I'm tired and bleary, but I'm full and happy and a little bit sad, too, because it's already over and I wish we could have stayed together, sharing everything, for so many more days.
Valentina Calabresi
