And Now For a Good Hair-Washing!

"Long, beautiful, gleaming, steaming, flaxen, waxen...I adore hair!" -James Rado & Gerome Ragni

There is a tradition in our ward that was started by a genius camp director a few years ago. That camp director only served one summer, and yet her tradition continues. Most camp activities come and go, but this one has remained.

On Thursday afternoon, after a long hot hike, when everyone's hair has reached a pinnacle of greasiness, and the grime on our bodies is peaking, we take a couple of hours and enjoy a nice hair washing. Amongst our duffle bags, foam pads, and camp chairs, everyone packs a gallon jug of water to take to camp. In the morning, we put the water out so that the sun will warm it. By Thursday afternoon, everyone is ready for some down time and a good scalp massage.

There is something about this activity that is so therapeutic. Girls and leaders alike take turns washing one another's hair. After bonding for a week, this is a way for us to serve one another in a very simple yet profound way.

Giggles and chatter echoed through the camp as the girls laughed over the experiences of the week, and the beautiful lake made a perfect backdrop for our peaceful afternoon.

I might have squealed once or twice as the day had been cold and the sun hidden, thus leaving my jug of water not quite as warm as I'm used to. No matter, it felt so good to have clean hair!

Many girls choose foot baths over hair-washings, and some choose both. Those dirty tired feet long for a good soak. I have fond memories of an experience last year, when I helped wash the feet of one of the young women as we discussed important principles of the gospel. She is a new convert and receives little encouragement at home when it comes to spiritual matters. But when she visits her dad in the summer and is able to attend girls camp, she gets to learn of the gospel unencumbered. That pleasant afternoon last summer in the mountains, with a young woman seeking answers to all sorts of questions, was a perfect teaching opportunity.

I can see now the significance of the Savior washing the feet of his disciples as he taught them saving principles. 

By the end of the afternoon, everyone was brushing their squeaky clean hair and standing in line for intricate braids by the resident master hair-stylist. It was the perfect way to prepare for the evening fireside and testimony meeting, where the spirit abounded and everyone was spiritually fed and filled. Ah, the beauties of Girls' Camp!