Adolescence

I started writing Christmas cards today, and somehow got distracted and ended up looking at old files tucked away on my computer.  This letter was written to my friend, Brooke, the summer after 8th grade.  It illustrates my temporary state of insanity due to countless hours and days spent in "the dungeon" (a little building on campus with all the archives) purging files by myself as a summer job at Columbia Adventist Academy.  In re-reading this, I have a renewed appreciation for my friends who have put up with my quirkiness over the years, and for the millions of VBS warriors out there.  Here it is, in its raw, unedited glory:


July 24, 1997

Ms. Brooke M. Osborne
[ADDRESS REMOVED]

Dear Ms. Osborne,

I would like to inform you about the up-coming enterprise.  Our plans thus far indicate that you will be needed on this perilous adventure.  Let me explain.

You have only the rest of this week to get prepared for this incredible expedition.  This is a dangerous job, and you won’t be paid, but many people are counting on you, Brooke, so you must go through with it.  The name given this exotic, chaotic experience?  Vacation Bible School.  

Yes, you are needed to fulfill the needs of the members of first graders at  Vacation Bible School. 
You are needed to dress like a hick at the “Caring Coral”.
You are needed to show the young people the creatures of the barnyard each day.  You must fight valiantly when duty calls.  I need YOU to join the army!

Please report to your nearest official as soon as it is convenient.  You are needed to FIGHT the battles, and to WIN this war!  LET US FIGHT FOR LIBERTY!

Sincerely,

Andrea L. Keele
President of the United States of America