During my last post "The Promise: What Do Cub Scouts Want From Scouting?" I discussed a couple of key things, which include Cub Scouting is an OUTDOOR activity NOT an INDOOR activity. I just have to repeat that in case you misunderstood me...........Cub Scouting is an OUTDOOR activity NOT an INDOOR activity. But you may ask................"Why do something outside when it can be done inside?" Because doing something "inside" that should be done "outside" doesn't make you a Scout, it makes you, well, I don't know what it makes you, but it most definitely makes you not a Scout. So then what makes a "Scout" a "Scout"? While the answer to this should be simple and straightforward, the true meaning of what a "Scout" is has become skewed. It has become skewed to the point where some even question whether "Modern Scouting" is "Scouting" at all. But not all hope is lost and it would only require slight changes to make "Modern Scouting", "Real Scouting". So then what is a "Scout"?
A Scout....................enjoys a hike through the woods more than he does a walk over the city's streets.
A Scout.....................Can tell North from South and East from West with or without a compass.
A Scout.....................Can find his way in unfamiliar territory.
A Scout.....................Knows his city.
A Scout.....................Can give directions to those in need.
A Scout.....................Knows where to get help if the need may arise.
A Scout.....................Knows where the nearest police or fire station is to his house, his school, and his Troop Meeting spot.
A Scout.....................Is not above asking for help but also can find his own way.
A Scout.....................Knows their is strength in being gentle.
A Scout.....................Knows when and how to defend himself.
A Scout.....................Knows to not cause any living thing undue harm.
A Scout.....................Knows the difference between "right" and "wrong."
A Scout.....................Can tie a knot that will hold.
A Scout.....................Can climb a tree with ease.
A Scout.....................Can swim a river or lake.
A Scout.....................Can pitch a tent and make a comfortable bed in the middle of nowhere.
A Scout.....................Can give first aid.
A Scout.....................Can row a boat or paddle a canoe.
A Scout.....................Knows the stars by name and can find his way by them.
A Scout.....................Walks through the woods with silent tread.
A Scout.....................Has keen eyes to notice many things that others won't see.
A Scout.....................Has ears to hear things that others would miss.
A Scout.....................Has a sharp sense of smell.
A Scout.....................Can kindle a fire even on the wettest or coldest day.
A Scout.....................Rarely uses more than one match.
A Scout.....................Can kindle a fire without a match.
A Scout.....................Can use and sharpen his blade.
A Scout.....................Can split and chop wood with ease.
A Scout.....................Can use an ax or a saw safely and efficiently.
A Scout.....................Knows that bravery doesn't mean you don't have fears.
Obviously, A Scout can do many things, as this is only a short list of the things a Scout should know. The take-away point here isn't about what a Scout can do, it is that many things a Scout can do must be done outside. And since most things a Scout can do are outside activities a Scout prides himself on knowing and understanding the woods. He is a true outdoors-men, an explorer, an adventurer, a seeker, and a craftsman.
Well, as normal I haven't made it as far as I would have liked to but the good news is that we still have made progress.
Blessed are the Cub Scouts who are led with patience and understanding.........................For they will learn the strength of endurance and the gift of tolerance.
May the Great Scoutmaster or all the Scoutmasters, be with you until we meet again.
Yours in Scouting Service
Mark West
Eagle Scout
ASM Troop 1316/Troop 0669
Council Aquatics/Outdoor Ethics
Council Program/Training/Camping
Council Special Needs Scouting Support Services
If you are paid to do Scouting, you are called a Professional. If you are not paid to do Scouting, you are called a volunteer. If you pay to do Scouting, then you are called a Scouter.
