Agalog-ging During The Year
By Iris Krasnow

The best part about being a writer is that you can bring your feelings and imagination to vivid life, these important parts of you that others cannot see. By writing your heart you are revealing yourself to others and at the same time you are opening your readers up to self-revelation.
Words on paper are powerful and inspirational. You know how you feel after you have read a great book. Smarter. More Creative. Inspired.

I witnessed the power and inspiration of your words last summer as my Agalog writers sat with their heads down, pens moving furiously, combing your imaginations for the right descriptions, the right words. In poetry and short essays, you transformed your feelings into clear and colorful language, as you chronicled the nature of Agawak, the depth of your camp friendships and the joys and struggles of  competition. Our weekly Agalog readings were a testament to your creativity and hard work – and talents as writers.

As you move through the school year packed with academic assignments I encourage you to also remember to make time to write what is going on in your hearts. Make time to scribble down in journals your feelings about family and friendships, the vacations you take, your dreams.

Writing is the best way to keep track of who you are, where you have been, and who you want to be. I have kept a journal for 45 years, and I love looking back to experience my history again. I love to be reminded of the people and places that formed who I am today. I love to hear my parents’ voices again documented in my old writings, two beloved people who are no longer here.

What a thrill to know I will be returning to camp next summer, where my Agalog writers will gather on our benches once again. Nestled in the woods, with shards of sun dancing around us, we will be newly inspired to write our hearts. I am so impressed by what you created last year and cannot wait to see how your literary talents have bloomed.

Mary will read your beautiful creations by the warmth and hush of the campfire. And who knows? Many of you may end up in your careers as I have, as a journalist and author who was first published in Agalog as a child.

As I have often told you, my inspiration to become a writer came when I wrote little stories and poems for Agalog as a first-year camper at Agawak in 1963, at the age of eight.

I am 60 now, but I can still do the splits! In eight short months camp starts again, and I will be waiting for you in front of Foxhole, with notebooks and pens.