It don’t mean a think if it aint got that swing — By Bret Scott

Last night was the thing joy is made of. Tracie and I have worked with these amazing teens for the past 9 months; driving them and pushing them and to the point where I’m sure they at times resented us. The YMAD program demands commitment, unity and passion from the teens. Yesterday was a tough and emotional day. After another challenging day at the schools a violent storm rolled through Jibhi camp and nearly destroyed the place. While we were all gathered in the dining “room” avoiding the rain, a sudden burst of tornadic winds immediately ripped off the tin roof and sent it soaring. We all ducked for cover to avoid the flying sheets of tin, Raj and Sandeep directed the team to immediately evacuate to the concrete building ( the om shanti ) across camp where the adult leaders stay — we gathered all 18 of us in our room. We rode out the short-lived yet seemingly dangerous storm cell all safely packed into a 12 x 12 room. After the storm passed, we had a chance to “defuse” or “debrief” the group and have a chance to express how everyone was feeling about yesterday’s challenges. I was amazed at some of the heart-felt expressions of maturity, and compassion, forgiveness and genuine love for the work we are trying to do here. Tracie and I were prepared to have to buoy them up after the frightening events that had transpired — but we did not need to — they had already mustered their inner strength and lifted each other up. And like a sign from the heavens — while discussing our inspirational leadership thoughts for the evening — Tracie said to the teens “… if you’ve brightened their day…” and at that moment the power came back on and filled the room with light.

Parents, please know your kids are amazing. They have put their heart and souls into this project. We have watched this group gel together and care for each other and laugh and cry and become the family we envisioned 9 months ago.

While we were gathered in our room, Sandeep’s staff repaired the kitchen and dining room roofs and started making dinner — and we all able to return to the common area as if nothing had happened. It was heart warming to watch them talk and play card games and eventually lead into swing dancing outside by the fire. It was awe-inspiring to watch them laugh and enjoy each others company as they celebrated their successes.

This morning the sky is blue, the birds are chirping. It’s going to be a glorious day at Jibhi.

Thank you all for allowing your teens to become a part of our lives. We love them like our own and are grateful for the opportunity to be here with them witnessing history be made.

7 Responses to “It don’t mean a think if it aint got that swing — By Bret Scott”

1. Jennifer Findlay, on June 4th, 2019 at 1:36 pm Said:

   Thank you for sharing your love for our amazing kids! I know our kids adore you all and are so grateful for each of you leaders. You have been great examples to them! Each time I read a blog post I am amazed at their level of maturity transforming daily! As a parent I live for these moments in my kids! Everything we do for them is to help them be successful and responsible adults. There is no doubt this experience is one that has helped continue their amazing journeys. I am in awe of each youth and their ability to let this whole experience sink down deeply in their hearts and use it to transform them for good! I will admit that each post has brought tears to my eyes as I witness their love and devotion! We are blessed by all the hard work and dedication and will forever be grateful for this experience! Keep smiling and working hard. We love you all! ❤️

   P.S…So glad everyone is safe from that storm! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 AND…Kennedy, I love you! 😘❤️❤️❤️

2. Rachel Bliss, on June 4th, 2019 at 1:49 pm Said:

   Bret! It feels like my body can’t hold all the gratitude inside ❤️. Beyond humbled by your kindness/wisdom and willingness to dive into this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to you (and all the leaders) for bringing your gifts and love into this experience. Grateful my daughter has this opportunity. Just love you all so much! Thank you 🌍❤️♾

3. Anne Scott, on June 4th, 2019 at 2:30 pm Said:

   Scary!!! But I’m glad everyone was safe and no one was too traumatized. Sounds like you are having a great time! We love you guys ❤️

4. Joanne Cinalli, on June 4th, 2019 at 2:34 pm Said:

   Thank you for the update. That must have been so scary, but glad you were all together at camp. How amazing is Raj and team to jump into action and get camp back up and running so quickly. I once again am so thankful to have you all as leaders to our kids. Can hardly wait to hear all about your adventures in person. Sending much love your way!

5. Brittaney, on June 4th, 2019 at 2:54 pm Said:

   My gratitude to you and Tracy, and all of the other leaders, is more than I can express. Thank you for taking this journey on and helping these kids grow and become. The peace I have as a parent knowing it’s you out there with my daughter is what made it possible to send her. I know you love, watch out for, protect, push and encourage her as if she were your own. Thank you!! There is literally no one else I could have convinced Vince to agree to let her go with!

6. Lisa Palmer, on June 4th, 2019 at 6:03 pm Said:

   Wow! When you said a bad storm, I had no idea it was THAT crazy! So grateful everyone is safe and well through all the bumps and turns of your expedition! Not surprised the Sandeep and Raj got it all pulled back together so quickly. Please give my love to them and thank them for their always incredible, faithful service to our YMAD teams! And THANK YOU and Tracie for being such caring and loving second parents for all those teens! ❤️

7. Kerry Bright, on June 5th, 2019 at 12:27 am Said:

   Oh how we love you! Our hearts are overflowing with love and gratitude for all you have done for our children. Thank you! We love the crazy, scary, turbulent times of life because hard times make us awesome and they are the best memory makers. Lots of love to all❤️