I have to say one of the best parts of my childhood was being both a Cub and a Boy Scout. Because I was a non-swimmer, I never quite made it to the top as an Eagle Scout, but many things I learned I still practice today.
“Be Prepared” is the scout motto. If you look in the back of my van you might conclude I’m prepared for most any contingency. I don’t need your help AAA or FEMA, I’ve got it covered.
In Cub Scouts it was nice to have my dad involved with me, although I’m not sure how much I actually did to build the 6 inch Pinewood Derby cars we raced down the track.
Through those years I learned how to tie knots the right way, shoot with a bow, target practice with a rifle, build a good campfire and then cook over it, safely use a knife and ax, dig a latrine, and get along with others when camping out together.
My biggest Scouting adventure was with my dad and our troop on four day 40 mile hike around Mt Rainier. I’m fairly certain I had the world’s worst back pack… I may still have indentations in me from those canvas straps.
Even though we weren’t involved in a church for a good part of that time, Scouting sure wasn’t bashful about instilling moral values. At one time I had the Scout Oath and Law memorized. It’s such a good starting point for any of us on how we should live our lives out.
Scout Oath (or Promise)
On my honor I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country
and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong,
mentally awake, and morally straight.Scout Law
A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly,
courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty,
brave, clean, and reverent.
If you have a favorite scouting memory, or a comment, feel free to share.
Be Prepared, in Jesus name…
Larry
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