a happy place.

I've had EFY on my mind a lot this past week.

How grateful for the AMAZING youth and the friends I continually meet every year!

I know for me, that when I've been a counselor, I wonder if what I say or how I act will affect any of the youth that I come in contact with. Will I be that example to them? Will I say enough to emphasize just how important this gospel is and how it has blessed my life and can for them too?

And sure enough, at the most random times, I will hear from a participant who needs advice or wants to talk about something that I taught them that previous summer. [Yes, it just happened to me this week] I feel so overwhelmed and touched every time. They seriously just take my breath away.

These aren't just any ordinary kids. They are amazing young men and women who have SO much potential. I just feel lucky enough to spend 1 week of their lives with them and, with some, remain in contact with. They really are so much stronger than I ever was at their age. Yes, I was a good kid and had a testimony and loved this church, but they are SO much stronger, I can't even explain it.

I don't do EFY to make friends [but let's be real, it's a GREAT perk] I have met some amazing people and some friends that have benefited me and blessed my life. We really grow close to one another and I'm so grateful for those people who I have met and have become such great friends with!

I don't do it for money, I wouldn't even want to get paid if that was an option.

I do it for the youth. I do it because they help me become a better person and change my life. I do it because they continue to amaze me and strengthen my testimony. I do it because I love to share with the youth why this gospel is so important.

EFY is truly one of my most favorite things in this life. How many people get to spend weeks with amazing kids and co-workers talking about and sharing something that is so near and dear to our hearts? Not many. And I've been lucky enough to have EFY in my life since I was 15.

It's a once in a lifetime experience and I'm so grateful I have been a part of this program for so many years. I've met some amazing people and have made friends that will last a life time. If I could, I would have EFY be all year round. It's an amazing program to be a part of.

EFY is my happy place.

I know I wouldn't be the person I am today without it.

EFY will always have a special place in my heart.