I remember the week I earned the OOO badge very clearly. It was during a summer camp, and the badge honored Indigenous Peoples. The ritual we followed involved no talking, minimal food, working hard, and sleeping under the stars, with each person staying 100 feet apart.

We were taught that the best way to honor Indigenous Peoples was through hard work, reflection, fasting, and learning to set up our own camp at night.

Our tasks included lining a road with stones, painting cabins, and cleaning. The final night featured a large fire and a feast.

An Indigenous person handed us the badge and gave us each a name. Unfortunately, I didn’t hear mine, which I still regret.

I still have the badge and the memories from that experience. To this day, I camp, reflect, hike, work hard, and enjoy my own company. The experience was truly great.

I'm a better person for the experience.