Weird people can love unconditionally, so I would much rather love than be normal. My superpower is being weird. My superpower is helping people realize that being weird is special, and it's OK to be weird.
Thursday night, SCATS campers had an inspirational treat as we were joined by Dean Terrance Brown of WKU’s Potter College of Arts & Letters. Dean Brown not only is an educator and folklorist but also an opera singer!
Dean Brown encouraged campers to think through what their own superpowers can be and how each and every one of them can become an original and driven superhero in just a few steps. First, he asked campers to explore the things they love: their names, sports, creativity, art, music, their different skills, and “happy places.” Many campers shared what they loved, and most importantly, why it was so special to them. Campers then discussed how to find their tribe: the people they are free to grow alongside, self-reflect with, and be their true self with. Campers talked about how their tribe can help them find their superpowers. Next, campers explored the idea of failing as an opportunity for growth, not a wall that stops their progress. Dean Brown provided tips for how to keep going when things are tough in almost any situation. Campers shared the skills that come naturally to them and what makes them original.
“Lean into your weird!” the campers chanted. Embrace all of yourself to be bold and strong, Dean Brown encouraged. “Weird people can love unconditionally, so I would much rather love than be normal,” he said. “My superpower is being weird. My superpower is helping people realize that being weird is special, and it’s OK to be weird.”
Dean Brown wrapped up the evening with “homework,” challenging the campers to find their superpowers. After all, they all have one!
– Wynn T., counselor
