Today is the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts of America. There are all kinds of places to learn about Scouting. I wore my uniform to work all day today to celebrate. It appears I'm having a bad hair day... or a not-very-much hair day. Oh, well...
I never thought I'd be a "lifer". I (like most people) got roped into being Scoutmaster because "somebody needed to do it". There was no doubt in mind that as soon as my son got out, so would I. When I said as much at a Pioneering training, old Cliff said, "No, you're a lifer." "Hide and watch, buddy", sez I. Well, we see who was right.
So here I am, 12 years later (nine years after my son quit), still dressing up like Barney Fife. It's the friends you make, and the values of Scouting that keep me here.
There are far too many sad messages being drummed into people from all quarters these days: "If it feels good, do it." "The one who dies with the most toys wins." "Life is short: Have an affair."
The world will be better off for every person who is Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent.
Cool! Scouts probably saved my life. One of my Scout leaders was an amazing man - wonderful with wayward teenagers - and was kind enough to come to all sorts of my life markers like my wedding. You sound like the kind of guy who'll genereate similar happy memories.
Posted by: christina | February 14, 2010 at 09:43 PM