Scouting and Civil Order

 

A week and a bit ago, the Scout Association issued a press release looking at what we in Scouts do and how that contrasts to much of the rioting that had taken place in much of England and Northern Ireland.

Here is my thoughts.

In scouts we don't see peoples ethnicities as either limiting in terms of intelligence, capablilities of leading or issues in terms of getting along with other different groups and we have little time for anyone who treats people less favourably because of their background.

Rather than pushing a belief that people are engaged in a struggle against others that they must stay on top of prioritizing their race, religion or social class, we offer hope and belief that by your own efforts and application supported by all along the way you will realize your full potential regards of what your background is while we acknowledge and do all we can to minimize the barriers people may feel would limit it.

By doing this, we elevate everyones potential and believe the well-being of society is served better by this than the destruction,racial hatred and fear we saw on the streets being replaced by a message of hope and the promise of support open to all to be the best selves you can.

When it comes to knowing on what side of the fence we stand against hatred, we know which side we are on and that from our foundation, establishing groups around the World, what our values are.

We reject rioting and racial hatred.

Was Santa Claus a boy scout?

 

One thing that has often facinated me is how many historical figures may perhaps of been Scouts before it really started when you look at their lives and how they live them

Let's take a look at Santa Claus shall we and see how he may compare and specifically how he compares against the Scout Law:

Trustworthy – You certainly can trust that Santa will show up every year, just like he promises.

Loyal – He’s very dedicated to his craft and his mission. Imagine the disappointment if he wasn’t loyal to his work.

Helpful – saves many Dads from last-minute shopping. Dads are notorious for leaving things to the last minute, just ask a mom.

Friendly – how many adults would let a millions of kids sit on their lap and listen to what they want? And smile while doing it?

Courteous – He always says “thank You” for the billions of calories he gets in milk and cookies each year.

Kind – delivering gifts to children is a great act of kindness. Except for the drum sets. That’s not too kind, at least to the parents.

Obedient – I emailed Mrs. Claus on this one. No reply, but seeing he’s been married for all those years, I’m going to bet he does what she tells him.

Cheerful – Ho ho ho. Need I say more?

Thrifty – makes his own toys. Saves a bundle on shipping alone.

Brave – would you get in a magic sleigh pulled by reindeer and fly? Me neither.

Clean – not sure how he does it, but that red suit looks great even after the millionth chimney has been gone down

Reverent – does his thing on a very special night for his religion and represents the spirit of the day.

…So yes Troop, it looks like Santa Claus may indeed have been a Boy Scout.

This time of year no matter what holiday you celebrate, remember that doing your best every day and living the Scout Oath and Law is what really makes each of you a Boy Scout!

Caring for others

 There are certain times where you may be called upon or feel it is a part of your responsibility to care for others most directly through getting such things as provisions for them or through providing personal care and supervision enabling them to do as much as they can for themselves as much as you or others around them may need to undertake those things they may struggle with.

Being prepared to step in and make a difference not least for those we care for is I feel a fundermental quality of the Scout of any age.

Birthday edition

 

Today is a different day on this blog, one of just a handful that come around every year no matter what and to which what this blog is about makes a big difference.

Your birthday is important however it may be marked but the bigger thing is more the character and values of the one to whom it is as we uphold the Scout law and try our very hardest to live up to our Promise.

We can stand on the sidelines or we can make a difference no matter where we may find ourselves either by standing up for what is right or by our direct actions helping out, making things happen for the good.

As a "forever cub in spirit" this applies as I reflect on my birthday and what that means.

Being helpful

 

What does this life mean in practise is a good question because anybody within reason can just spend time outdoors and there are a good number of organizations who do support being outdoors.

I think it's about values ultimately backed by deeds.

On Monday I did something that I didn't have to.

Mum had received like a good number of others a telephone message to arrange an appointment for the Covid vaccination, part of NHS England's  program to help get us out of the restrictions we are in and to reduce the number of people who have been taken seriously ill with Covid.

When I found out about it and that she had a booking I offered to to go with her to assist as she has difficulties in walking and hearing apart from being very nervous so she would able to attend without having to be asked.

That's because I understand it to be a part of our standards.

It's not a 'chore' it is an extra thing that makes a difference seeing something that needed to be done and doing it.

That kind of thing from a youngster helping a elderly neighbour onwards is a big part of what it is about because we grow when we take on responsibilities and take our place within the community. 

A scout is...

As we enter the Autumn I think it is opportune to remind ourselves of the values we aspire to not just while scouting although that is extremely important  but also in our day to day lives working with others but representing all that is good in it at all times.