Category Archives: Ideals

Band-aids

Posted on by • Posted in Character, comments, Ideals, Journey to Excellence, Leadership, Methods, Patrol Method, Scoutmaster minute, Skills, teamwork, training, Values • 3 Comments

The other night we had a spirited conversation with our Troop committee about, among other things, youth leadership and keeping older Scouts engaged.
One of the main ingredients of the Patrol method and effective youth leadership at the Troop level is that the youth run it.  Well, no duh.. right.  And sometimes that is not always a pretty process which in many cases parents are not happy seeing.  And in many cases it has an adverse effect on the Scouts in the troop also.  And there is the issue.
We can stand back and watch the Scouts struggle and bleed… or we can rush in and apply band-aids for every skinned knee.
Now if we are doing this right.  We teach and coach, we train and mentor, and we allow knees to get skinned on occasion and see if the Scouts apply their own band aids.  When the bleeding gets out of control.. there we are to assist in whatever the wound of the day is.
I presented that analogy to a parent the other night, I am pretty sure they got it, but I stressed that as a Scoutmaster we always try to find a good balance between the bleeding and the band-aids.
Scouts need to be in charge and allowed to make mistakes.. even fail.  They need to struggle through some really bad meetings and then challenged to see where the issues are and make attempts and fixing them.  We are always there with our first aid kits (figuratively speaking) to apply a band-aid when needed.  Sometimes that band-aid comes in the form of a complete shut down, sometimes it’s a gentle talk with and offering of advice.  But no matter what it is always the Scouts that come up with the solution, the right idea, and the plan to get out of the mess they are in.
Parents and Scouts alike do not like a disorganized  and non productive meeting.  I don’t mind them.. especially because they lead to teaching and learning opportunities…
But what of the Scouts (and parents) that decided that they are not patient enough to allow the process to work?
Well, they need to develop some patients, the Scouts need to be trained properly, and the program needs to be allowed to work.  When those happen, learning happens and the Scouts start to see more success over failure.
If a Scout says they are going to leave… well, try to explain to them that this is all a part of the process.  Ask them what they are doing to help.  If they insist on leaving.. invited them back.
I don’t know that you can convince them all, those that get it get it.  Those that don’t and refuse to be patient really don’t understand Scouting and what we are trying to accomplish here.
We are not a church club or a Cub Scout pack.  We are trying to play a game with a purpose that forces young men to make decisions and develop leadership skills.  We are asking that these same boys make ethical choices that will serve as the foundation of their decision-making for the rest of their lives.  We are trying to show them through the process that life is hard and those that work hard, handle adversity well, and can work with others on a team will be successful in life.  They will measure their success not in wealth, but in how they live a life of character.
So we can stand back and let them bleed a little, or we can rush in with the band-aids.
To be honest, I really don’t mind the sight of a little blood.  It means that they are learning.
Before I get emails and comments about letting Scouts get hurt.. that is NOT what I am suggesting.  It is just an analogy.  If it doesn’t work for you so be it.
Train ‘em..Trust ‘em.. and let ‘em lead!

Have a Great Scouting Day!

Why Wood Badge?

Posted on by • Posted in Ideals, Leadership, Leave no trace, Methods, Oath and Law, Patrol Method, planning, Scout Law, Service, Skills, teamwork, training, Wood Badge • 4 Comments

For those of you that have been to Wood Badge you understand the great training, the lasting friendships, and the spirit of Scouting that comes in every Wood Badge course.  You get idea that every Scout deserves a trained leader and that in Wood Badge you are participating in the Advanced Leadership Course of the Boy Scouts of America.  You understand the committment that it takes in time and money to seek out the best training and then follow-up that training by spending up to a year and half working a ticket designed to make Scouting better for the youth we serve.  You get all of that.
So why should a Scouter go to Wood Badge.  Yes, it’s all of the stuff previously stated but it’s a lot more than that.
Why Wood Badge?  Well for starters it is the best Scout leader training the BSA has.  No matter at which level you serve in Scouting, Wood Badge has something for you.  Whether you are the Chief Scout Executive or a Den Leader, Wood Badge will teach you how to provide a great program for our Scouts starting with why we do this thing called Scouting.  The Wood Badge experience gives you insight to the World of Scouting, not just your little piece.  It reinforces methods and Aims and gets all Scouters on the same sheet of music, and yep, you will be singing a lot!
Wood Badge allows you the much-needed opportunity to step back into the hiking boots of a Scout and be that Scout as he experiences Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and is introduced to Venture Scouts.  You get to learn like a Scout learns and in doing so you become a better communicator and teacher.  You learn to train and lead using the EDGE method.  I think you will find that this method satisfies every learning style and will assist you in sharpening your leadership skills.
Wood Badge sends you back to you unit with a song in your heart, a smile on your face, and a mission to make Scouting better.
The training at Wood Badge will make you a better Scouter, a better Spouse, a better employee when you use the tools taught in the course.  It gives you perspective on everything in your life and a method to work you future plans in and out of Scouting.  The Wood Badge training is world-class and is used in corporate America and in organizations big and small.
So why Wood Badge?  Well, for one thing, it is our direct link to Baden Powell’s training of Scouters.  The methods may have been refined, the uniforms certainly are different, and Scouting has changed with the times, but the Wood Badge is the Wood Badge and our history and tradition in Scouting is brought full circle in the Wood Badge experience.
When Baden Powell held the first Scoutmaster Training at Gilwell, he organized the participants into Patrols.  This is the foundation of a Boy Scout Troop and BP understood that we learn by doing and do it with our Patrol.  During the Wood Badge course the instruction all leads to doing.  Within the Patrol, the participants work together to become a high performance team.  Once this is realized, the experience can be taken back and applied in the Scouters unit. 
Wood Badge has four specific objectives and as a result of attending Wood Badge, participants will be able to:
First, View Scouting globally, as a family of interrelated, values-based programs that provide age-appropriate activities for youth.
Second. Recognize the contemporary leadership concepts utilized in corporate America and leading government organizations that are relevant to our values-based movement.
Third,  Apply the skills they learn from their participation as a member of a successful working team.
And finally, Revitalize their commitment by sharing in an overall inspirational experience that helps provide Scouting with the leadership it needs to accomplish its mission on an ongoing basis.
So Why Wood Badge?  Back when I became a new Scouter helping out with my oldest son’s Pack I was invited to go to Wood Badge.  I did not give it too much thought, after all, I was just a Cub Scout Den Leader, why do I need more training?  Then I became a Cubmaster, and again, an invitation to Wood Badge was extended.  A group of Scouters that were (and still are) super active in the District kept encouraging me to go to Wood Badge.  They kept telling me that this “Mountain Top” Scouting experience was something that I really needed to attend.  And again, I blew it off thinking that everything was going great in the Pack and I really didn’t need more leadership training.  In 2004 I became a Scoutmaster, and again the same group of Scouters encouraged me to get to Wood Badge.  I went to a Wood Badge dinner in January of 2005.  It was a gathering to recognize Wood Badge participants that had completed their tickets and introduce Wood Badge to prospective participants.  My wife and I went and enjoyed the evening.  The room was filled with the most enthusiastic Scouters I have ever seen.  They were from every corner of the council and represented every level of Scouting.  Toward the end of the program a Scouter stood in front of the crowd and asked if “There were any Beavers in the house?”  At first I thought he was referring to the Oregon State Beavers.. but what happened next sealed the deal for me.  About a dozen Scouters stood up and broke out in song, when they were finished, the whole room (well those Scouters with beads on) stood and sang.  They all sat down and about another dozen different Scouters stood and sang a verse about Bobwhites.. and so it went till the whole room was singing.  The staffers closed out the song and everyone began hugging and shaking hands and there was nothing but smiles and laughter in the room.  I sat there with my wife with a big grin on my face.  My wife looked at me and said.. “Well… go sign up.”  And that night I registered for the next course. 
I participated in WE1-492-1-05 and was placed in the Beaver Patrol.  I did have a “Mountain Top” experience and took all I learned back to my Troop.  In 2009 I was asked to be on Staff.  I had to turn it down because I was over extended as not only the Scoutmaster of my Troop, but the Scoutmaster of a Troop heading to the National Jamboree.  In late 2010, I was asked again to be on staff for the 2011 course and I immediately said yes.  I served as a Troop guide for W1-492-11 and as I have shared with my fellow Troop guides and the mighty Buffalo Patrol, “I had a great experience when I went to Wood Badge, I fell in love with Wood Badge on staff.”  Early this year I was asked again to staff a Wood Badge course.  And again, I said yes. 
The people who attend Wood Badge and those that staff Wood Badge are the greatest Scouters out there.  Their dedication to Scouting and the youth we serve is second to none.  Their committment to training and making the Scouting organization better is beyond compare.
So Why Wood Badge?  Why Not?
If you have been invited to attend Wood Badge, please consider it.  You will not regret it.  If you are concerned about time and money.  Contact your local Wood Badge staff, ask at your next roundtable, there are ways to get you into the next course.  The benefits of Wood Badge outweigh the excuses not to go.  You are a dedicated Scouter, I know this, because you waste you time reading my blog.  SO if you have not been to Wood Badge..  GO!  And you will have a great experience.  I promise.
If you are a Wood Badger… What’s your Critter?  Leave a comment and share your Wood Badge story.
Have a Great Scouting Day!

Veterans Day 2012

Posted on by • Posted in blog, Character, Citizenship, Ideals, Leadership, Values • Tagged • Leave a comment

This year as we celebrate Veterans day I would only ask that you remember that veterans represent America.  They come from every neighborhood, they come from every economic status, they come from every county and state.  They are the sons and daughters of America.  They do not ask to go into harms way and many don’t, but what they all have in common is that They say “I will go”.  They serve for many reasons.  They are looking for a way to see the world, they are looking for money for education, they serve because their family has a long tradition of service, what ever the reason they serve.
Many veterans had a great time in the serve, some hated it.  Some stayed for a single term of enlistment, some made it a career.
Some veterans were drafted, most volunteer.   They do every job the military asks and some find a skill of trade that they can use outside of the military.
Not all go off to war, but all are ready when they get they call.  Those that do end up in a combat zone do their duty and want nothing more than to get back home.
Some veterans are known as the “Greatest Generation”, while others were not welcome home at all.  Some are real hero’s and others just did their job.  But none that really made sacrifice and saw the pain of battle will glamorize it or share the real horror.  Those that never heard the bullets fly have better stories, just ask them.  Regardless, they served and they deserve the honor of recognition this Veterans Day.
My family has been one that has given much to the service of our country.  My Grandfather served in the Army in World War II.  My father served for 24 years in the Army and did his time in Vietnam with the 23rd Infantry Division.  He saw his share.  My Uncle served in Vietnam also.  I served for 21 years and had the pleasure of serving with my Battalion in Iraq.  My father in law served in the Army reserve and my brother in laws served in the Navy and Army.  And now our family will add another soldier to the roles of service.  My oldest son will be departing soon for the Army, following in my footsteps as an Airborne Ranger, and following in the shadow of not only our families record of service, but those generations of warriors that our country has counted on since 1775.
On this veterans day, celebrate and honor those that give so much for our country.
They are not all hero’s and they all don’t have a chest full of medals, but they are are deserving of a simple thank you.
The truth be told, most veterans when asked will tell you that at the end of the day, they served for their buddies, the guys and gals in their unit.  Flag waving and singing patriotic songs mean very little to the those that fought alongside their comrades in arms.  Mom, Apple pie, and the great American way are reduced to your battle buddy, the guys that feel your pain, live through the discomfort, and share you loss.  They live through the blood, sweat, and tears of the grind of being away from home in a land far away.  They understand what it means to be afraid, they understand that everyday matters and they love each other like family.
This is the Army my son will join and this is the brotherhood that he is going to be a part of.  I am proud of my service and the service of my Father and his Father, we are proud of John and the bond that he will join in us.
This veterans day, I am remembering all of those that answered the call and became Veterans.  No matter where or when they served.  If they were part of something great or just accomplished great things.  Whether they served during times of peace or times of war, they all have one thing that no one can change or take away.  They served.
Happy Veterans Day
Have a Great Scouting Day

Election 2012

Posted on by • Posted in blog, Character, Citizenship, comments, Ideals, Leadership, Oath and Law, Patriotism, Scout Law, Scouts, Values • Tagged , , • Leave a comment

I have no comment on the results of the election.  I hope that everyone voted and did their civic duty.
What I do think about the election and our election process is this.  No matter who won there was a process that we the people agree is the best way to elect our leadership.  It may not be perfect but it works for us.  Not everyone is happy about the results.. about 49% of America is not to jazzed about the outcome, but that is how it works.  If we want to change the way it works, we have the ability to do so through the process.
This is a great teaching opportunity for our Scouts, who I am sure have also had their collective fill of TV commercials, junk mail, and dinner table conversations about the election.  Now is the time to answer those questions that they may not understand, encourage them to be a part of the process starting with their student government, but most importantly the fact that whether it is a school election or a national election, they must get out and vote and let their voice be heard.  Even if that voice is a small oval on a ballot.
I am trying real hard to keep my political opinion to myself here.  As we should when talking with our Scouts, but this is my blog and I suppose I can say what I want, but in the interest of being Loyal, Courteous, and kind… I will reserve comment on how I feel about the bad choice we American’s made… Again.
Have a Great Scouting Day

SMMPodcast # 106 – Relevance

Posted on by • Posted in Character, Citizenship, Ideals, Journey to Excellence, Leadership, Methods, Patriotism, podcast • Tagged • Leave a comment

It’s time for another SMMPodcast.  In this show we discuss a topic that seems to be on many Scouters minds, Is Scouting still Relevant?
Listen in as I share some of my thoughts on the issue.
This show is brought to you by Badge Magic.
Hope you like the show, leave feedback, send an email to tbirdironchef@gmail.com.
Follow me on twitter @smjerry and of course subscribe to the blog and leave your comments here.
Listen here or download.


Have a Great Scouting Day!

Give to Get?

Posted on by • Posted in blog, Character, Citizenship, comments, Good Turn Daily, Ideals, Leadership, Philmont, Scouting, Service, Values • Tagged • 3 Comments

When I was a young boy, my family instilled in me the value of being helpful.  By my parents example they showed us how to be of service to our community, to our church, and to our neighbors.  They were active in social functions that typically came with a cause.  My Dad is a pretty good handy man and would often drag me to helping those that needed cabinets fixed or other repairs.  We spent the better part of the spring of 1979 working in a Monastery doing odds and ends and the pay was great.  Onion Soup. 
I never once heard my Dad complain or ask for compensation for anything he ever did.  It was just a part of the deal.  Even to this day my parents are advocates for helping other people at all times.
And so as I grew up this attitude of service has stayed with me.  In church they always ask of people to give their time, talents, and treasure.  I always jokes that my treasure is limited but my time is free.. oh.. and limited talent too.
And so it is in Scouting.  Saturday at our Program and Training conference I sat in and listened to a discussion about Friends of Scouting.   The presenter asked the question why do we or why do we not give to FOS?   A few answers went around the room.  “To attain Presidential status and get free camping”, “To get a patch”, ‘To get the free advancement patches for our unit” were just a few.  The common theme.. To Get.
Most people Give to Get.  And that is the wrong approach when giving.  We give for the program.  We give so that our Council can maintain its outreach programs, maintain the camps we enjoy, and provide program for those that maybe would otherwise be left out.  We should not give because we get something in return, we give because we can.
Back in 2008 I had the good fortune to give to the Council’s endowment through the James E. West Fellowship.  Many Scouters half-joking could not resist to tease that I bought a knot.  It was and is not about the knot.  After thoughtful discussion with my wife, we decided that we could afford in our budget to give the $1000 over the year to help our Scouting programs.  Knowing where the money goes was important to me and knowing that all of it would be used for bettering Scouting programs in our Council was the answer I needed.  So we gave.  Yes, we got a knot, but that knot to me is a demonstration, just like my parents showing me how to give and be of service, people who know and understand what the James E. West Fellowship is see that I am a servant leader.  I wear it to be an example of giving.  I put my money where my mouth is.
Many families take advantage of all that Scouting has to offer.  We teach that “A Scout is Thrifty” and he pay’s his own way.  But many families make excuses that the economy is bad, or we can’t afford this or that.  I understand that times are tough, but times get tougher when we make bad choices.  This may offend, but tough times are tougher when we make a choice to be lazy, wait for hand outs, or not accept our part in whatever it is that you value.  Time and time again I hear Scout parents talk about how expensive Scouting can be.  How much did you pay for those cigarettes?  The average price of a pack of smokes today is $4 to $6.  For the $60 spent on a carton of cigarettes you could send your kid to camp in a month.  But who am I to tell you how to spend you money?  The fact is, smokers value it over other things.  No one needs to smoke, they make a choice to smoke.  But for the money they literally burn, they could help their son have a great Scouting experience.  Now, I’m picking on smokers here, why?  Because they are the easy targets.  You can see the dollars physically being burned with them and I can’t help but pick that out when they say they can’t afford Scouting.  Truth be told, It pisses me off when they make excuses about money then light up a cigarette.  I wonder about priorities and that obviously they are being selfish.  That goes for lots of things.  How many times do you eat out a week.  I know for my family that’s at least a $40 to $50 trip.  So you limit that activity and use the money for something better.  I’m not suggesting that a night out is not called for here and there… but isn’t Scouting worth it?
Dollar for dollar you will not find a better value than Scouting.  If you believe that, and make an effort to support that, than doing what it takes to keep it going should be a priority of yours.  If not, then keep letting others do it for you…and the beauty is that you can expect everything that is offered.
I give, and expect nothing.
I love the Scouting movement and think that there is no better place for our young people to learn and practice what they learn to be productive members of our Country.  Learning skills, teaching, practicing leadership, developing a sense of citizenship, and becoming men and women that value Character and understand that it certainly does matter.
I do this without pay or the expectation of compensation.  My reward comes in seeing these kids grow up. 
The fact of the matter is that to do this it costs and who better to provide than people who know and understand the value of the program?
But why expect something in return?  Is that the spirit of giving?  I have heard it said that “The only thing that take with you is what you leave behind”.  I saw a great example of this in August down at the Philmont Scout Ranch.  Now I do not think that I will ever be a millionaire, and I don’t think that I will ever be donating major tracks of land to the Boy Scouts of America.  But what I do know is that my time is free, my talents are available, and my treasure, well I give what I can.  And I think that is all one can ask for.  With no strings attached, and nothing expected in return.. We give.
I am once again on the Wood Badge staff, and once again I give of time and talent, and I am sure some of the treasury will be spent.  This is something that between my wife and I we have decided is good.  It is good for us, it is good for those that come to the course, and it is good for Scouting.  We both understand that the value of Scouting is greater than any dollar amount.  The program is greater than any one leader.  Scouting is life changing and worth every penny, every hour, and everyone’s talent.
Give.  Not to Get, but because it is part of being a servant leader.
Have a Great Scouting Day!

And the beat goes on…

Posted on by • Posted in blog, Character, comments, Ideals, Risk Management • Tagged • 4 Comments

Today I received a comment on the blog about my last post.  It seems that an Irish Scouter is a bit unclear as to my position and/or does not see consistency in my opinion.  He asked 4 questions and I thought.. just to kick this horse a little more.. I would not just hit ‘approve’ on the comment and leave it at that.  Nope, you all will get the pleasure of reading my response and lets see where it lands.
His questions are as follows.. oh.. and my response.
1. If this list that is due to be released has someones name on it that has never broken any law nor can they be seen as a danger to a youth how are they able to clear their name.?
First of all, lets remember where this list comes from.  No one’s name is on the list unless they put it there.  The files are generated from applications submitted by the person to become a member of the BSA.  It is during the checks that the person is deemed ineligible.  So, they can clear their name by not getting into trouble in the first place.  NO.. I have no sympathy for anyone that has or will hurt a child.  In short the person in the file or list will have “self identified” themselves as someone who may potentially be a risk.
Second point on the files.  Who is going to see them.  These files are not going to be released to the local newspaper and will not be placed on bulletin boards in lunch rooms across the city.  The BSA has been instructed to make the files available upon request.  I know for certain that I will never see these files, nor will 99% of the public.
2. If someone who is public about their homosexual yet was a member as a youth but as soon as they turn 18 they must then leave because they may be a risk and find themselves on a list.
That is the current policy, has nothing to do with the files.  Nowhere on the Boy Scouts of America Application for membership is there a question about sexual orientation.  So given the current practice of background checks it will never come up.  Most of us in Scouting really don’t care about the sexuality issue.  But to answer the question.. Nope they would not “find themselves on a list” as this is not a piece of information that is on the application and I am sure not part of a background check either.
3. Should all military service personal be barred from American scouting. Some have fired on innocent children in a combat zone some may suffer from ptsd at a future date. ?
Yes All military service personnel should be barred from American Scouting… ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME?  NONE have fired on innocent children in a combat zone.  OH… unless you served with LT. William Calley in My Lai Vietnam.
This is a non issue.  A soldier that commits a crime is a criminal and the Military, unlike civilian courts drop the hammer.  This would make him a convicted felon and therefore he/she would be ineligible to serve in Scouting..just like any thug that would fire at innocent children.
I did two back to back tours in Iraq and served in the Army for 21 years.  Never saw what you suggest.  Stop watching Vietnam war movies.  I am sure you think we all smoke dope and drink too.  I have been diagnosed with PTSD.. but then again, they diagnose everyone with a combat identifier.. I earned a CIB (Combat infantryman’s Badge) and a Bronze Star.  My PTSD only flairs up when people that don’t know what they are talking about pop off.  If you want to talk about firing at innocent civilians I have story I could share about British Soldiers in the Basra area that would make you puke… but that is neither here nor there…. we are talking about Scouting right.  Oh and don’t forget our founder served in the Army.. I am sure that his soldiers were angels.
4. How can you stand by as your organization prevents personal who follow the scout law and are being honest about being gay and then kicked out and their name added to a list FULL of people who break the law. ?
John, you claim to read the blog.  I outlined my position on this issue in this post REACTION.  Again.  They would not be “on the list”.
OK this horse is now officially kicked.  In John’s opening statement of his comment he said, “I read your blog and have done so for a while, this is the second time that I nearly deleted all links to your site…”  I hope that you find my response satisfactory John, if not then I invite you to delete my feed from your reading list.  I am not changing my thoughts and ideas because of comments.  You asked how I can stand by our organization?  Well that is simple.  Even if it has issues, the Boy Scouts of America, the Scout Association, Scouts Canada, and all of the other 160 some odd Scouting organizations are still the best youth program on Earth and I am not willing to throw the baby out with the proverbial bath water.. are you?
Have a Great Scouting Day!

Reaction

Posted on by • Posted in Character, Ideals, Oath and Law • 3 Comments

I suppose it is time to poke at the hive again.  I reposted an article by Doug Metz the other day called Honoring the Scout Law.  Now I did not write one word of the original post, but I thought it was well written and expresses the views of many Scouts and Scouters currently serving in our organization.  I knew that by putting this post on my blog I would get emails, comments, and other communications regarding the content.  And yes I did.  Most of the emails I received were in line with the sentiment of the post, I wonder how much communication Doug got.
Either way, while it was not my post, and since I received multiple, let’s call them “opinions”.. I figured it was my turn to give you mine.
Now, if any thing I about to write upsets you of causes you to unsubscribe from this blog, well, I understand and I thank you for the time you spent here.  I hope that you got something out of the blog or at least enjoyed reading it until now.
So.. here it goes.
The Boy Scouts of America have policies, I understand and agree to live by those policies.  What I think is more important than policy is living the Scout Oath and Law.  And I think that all policy should stem from them.  The policy that excludes certain people from being a Scout or Scout leader is just that and certainly there is room for interpretation in it.
When it comes to homosexuality.  I just don’t care and don’t think the BSA should either.  I understand the apprehension that the BSA has, but don’t think it is thought through completely.  My guess is that the policy is directed at adults and not the youth.  Again, I understand, but don’t necessarily agree.  Examples of non homosexual adult abusing children out weigh those of homosexual ‘predators’ I think.  Now I don’t have the numbers to prove it, but you never really seem to hear of it.
Besides if the BSA was really concerned there would be better checks on who can and can not be an adult volunteer.  Really, the current process is lacking if we are really that concerned.
My opinion is allow the Charter Partner to make the decision on who is a leader.  Let them go through the vetting process.  Ensure that good interviews are in place and background checks.  But even background checks are not enough.  They will not tell what a person is capable of.. right.
Anyway.. when it comes to sexual orientation, the church, the government, the PTA, and the Boy Scouts of America should stay out of it.  As a private organization, the BSA has the right (upheld by congress) to decline membership to anyone.. and I agree with them having the right to do so.  I think the screening process needs to be tightened up.
The other argument here is that of a Scout being Reverent and Duty to God.
This is where the argument should just stop.  Why?  Because the BSA does not define God or how to worship that God.  The Boy Scouts of America have a Declaration of Religious principle.  It states: “The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God and, therefore, recognizes the religious element in the training of the member, but it is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training. Its policy is that the home and organization or group with which a member is connected shall give definite attention to religious life. Only persons willing to subscribe to this Declaration of Religious Principle and to the Bylaws of the Boy Scouts of America shall be entitled to certificates of membership“.  This is wide open for interpretation and allows for pretty much anyone to participate.  Further the BSA does not define who God is or how we are to worship and so that is up to the member and his family to decide.
Once again, when it comes to religion.  The Boy Scouts, the Government, the PTA, and the local Ice cream shoppe should mind its own business.  I have seen Scouts have greater connections to their God in the out doors than they will ever find in a church.
Now to the point of a Scoutmaster not signing a book because the Scout “comes out”.  SHAME ON HIM.  The Scout did the work, as far as you know he has faith in something (as defined by him and his family).  You, MR or MRS Scoutmaster I know for certain are NOT God and you need to get out your pen and start signing.
YOU Mr or Mrs Scoutmaster are not allowed to make the decision of faith or sexual preference.  If you will decline his membership at the end than you were wrong all along.  As far as you know this Scout has been a good Scout, completing all of the requirements as laid out by the BSA.  Over the last 7 Scoutmaster conferences you approved all this work and determined that this Scout was worthy of advancement.. now.. you would change you mind?  I work with an individual that goes to church every Sunday and is gay.  You see in her church it’s ok to be homosexual.  I know that her son is being raised by good person and it is my hope that one day she may even consider bringing him to Scouting.
All of this rings of the civil rights movement to me.. what ever happened to judging a person by their character and not their color, sex, sexual orientation?  Hmmmm are we going to preach being helpful, courteous and kind and turn our backs on our neighbor?
We make a promise to live the Scout Oath and Law.  Do we keep it?  I suppose that is what Doug was asking in his post.  To keep myself morally straight does not mean I turn my back on those that live in our community.  And who are we to decide that homosexuality is immoral?  Again, if are not to discriminate when it comes to our religious declaration than we need not make that call.  Morality is shared values and I am certain that even homosexuals find that being Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent are good values.  I am sure that all of us agree that Doing unto others as we would have done to us is a Golden Rule.  But we are willing to make these decision based on… what?
So do I think Homosexuality is wrong?  I have no idea.. truth is, I don’t really care.  The older I get the more live and let live I get.  Right or wrong is immaterial to me in this case as it is up to the individual and his family.  NOT the Church, the Government, and certainly not the Boy Scouts of America.  This whole issue to me comes down to Scouts.  How do we treat them and how do we handle a Scout that may be searching for answers both in religion and sexuality.  Both of those discussions need to start at home, but we all know that sooner or later, they end up in Scouts.  How will you handle that conversation?  It’s easy to avoid it, but that Scout is looking to you for guidance.  You are a mentor, you are a role model.  What is your answer.
So that’s where I am on the subject.  We can discuss.  But I have always been told to be careful when talking Politics and Religion… and the BSA should not engage in either and so neither will I.  We can talk about Scouts and how this effects them and I am certainly glad to hear your thoughts on the issue, but I won’t argue this issue with you.  Opinions are many on this, share yours… but when you do remember the Scout Law when you hit the submit, send, or enter key.
Have a Great Scouting Day!

The Wood Badge Difference

Posted on by • Posted in Ideals, Journey to Excellence, Leadership, Wood Badge • Tagged • 11 Comments

I attended Wood Badge in 2005.  I was in my 2nd year as a Scoutmaster and the troop was growing.  I had a real strong group of Scouting friends that all encouraged me to get to Wood Badge as soon as possible.  These friends of mine were all Wood Badge recipients and what I would call “movers and shakers” in our District.  They all were (and are) active participants in their units as well as taking on additional commitments within the District and Council.  They are Scouters Scouters.  So when the encouragement led to the annual Wood Badge dinner that year, I had to go and see what this was all about.
My wife and I went to the Wood Badge dinner.  It was a function where they presented an overview of Wood badge and concluded with a massive beading ceremony.  The air was thick with Scouting and I loved it.  The people were enthusiastic, friendly, and super active.  Needless to say, I was impressed.  I told my wife that I think I wanted to go to Wood Badge.. and then they got me.  They started the Wood Badge song.

So I went to Wood Badge.  WE1-492-1-05 and was fortunate enough to be a Beaver.  And a Good ‘ol Beaver too…
We showed up to Camp Clarke on the Oregon coast for our first weekend and I met my patrol mates.  We had a Cubmaster, a Committee Chair, an Assistant Scoutmaster, a Sea Scout Skipper, and me.  We were supposed to have a 6th member of the patrol, but the other guy did not show up.  Either way, the Beavers of our class became a high performance team rather quickly and we became close.  I think that if you measure high performance in laughter then we blew the measurement off the chart.  We had a great time, learned a lot together, and created a bond of Scouters that to this day maintain an enthusiastic attitude towards Scouting and our units.
Since I attended the course I have been a huge cheerleader for Wood Badge.  I promote Wood Badge every chance I get and proudly boast the benefits of attending the course.  I now have become one of those friends that encourage Scouters to get to Wood Badge.  All of the Assistant Scoutmasters in my Troop are Wood Badgers.  All of them.

Going to Wood Badge was a life changing experience for me and then in 2010 I was asked to be on the Staff for the 2011 course.  I immediately jumped at the chance to staff and I am glad that I did.  As much as I liked the Wood Badge course as a participant, I fell in love with Wood Badge as a member of staff.  Maybe it was because on staff I actually learned the material in order to teach it.  Maybe it was the increased depth of knowledge in really understanding the flow and progression of the course, something that, hind sight being what it is, I seemed to have missed when I was on course.  Maybe it was my fellow staff members, the Troop Guides that I got to become friends with and develop those strong bonds with.  The rest of the staff that had been there before that really made the experience a wonderful one.  I think as long as I live our staff night or “Night 5″ experience is a moment in time that I will cherish for ever.
I was asked a few weeks ago to once again staff a Wood Badge course, not as a Troop Guide this time, but as a member of the Admin staff.  What do you suppose the answer was…
So what is the Wood Badge Difference?
As I see it the Wood Badge difference is dedication.
Every Wood badger that I have ever met is dedicated to Scouting.  Wood Badge is a direct link to Baden Powell’s training of Scoutmaster’s.  I think that this link establishes a Scouting bond in the participant that is lasting.  Kind of like being handed down a piece of Scouting history as well as training that not only promotes the original purposes of the Scouting movement, but also current methods to achieve those aims.
Everyone that I have ever met that attended Wood Badge is dedicated to Scouting in one way or the other.  Whether they are currently active in Scouting or a Scouting Alumni, the Wood Badge experience is in their heart and they continue to support Scouting.  The values, traditions, and impact that Scouting has on our world can be seen in Wood Badgers.
Since I attended Wood Badge I have been able to participate in some cool Wood Badge activities.  At the National Meetings in San Diego, I attended a Wood Badge reception.  At the reception they held a Beading ceremony for those that attended the course at the Sea Base.  It was cool because at the end of the reception and beading ceremony with 100′s of people in the room they started the Wood Badge song.  I jumped right up and joined fellow Beavers from around our Scouting world in singing the song.  When I looked around the room I saw Scouters that were dedicated to Scouting.  They were at the National Meetings of the BSA and they were Wood Badgers.
Last week I attended a meeting for the up coming Program and Training Conference.. used to be Pow Wow or Scouting University.. now it’s all combined to a Super Saturday of training and classes on every subject that Scouting has to offer.  The common thread.. the instructors.  Wood Badgers.  They are all dedicated to making Scouting better, not just in their units, but helping other Scouters make their programs better, offer training to make the Scouter better and make Scouting better.  As I sat in the meeting the other night I looked around the room.  Beads hanging from a leather thong around every Scouters neck in the room.
The Wood Badge difference is example after example of Wood Badgers that make Scouting what it is.  It does not take but a few minutes at your next Round table to see the Wood badge difference.  Look at the Scouters that make an impact in their units, in their Districts and of course at the Council level.  This dedication to making Scouting better, stronger, and more relevant in our world today is because of Wood Badgers.  Understanding that link to today’s Scouter and Baden-Powell.  Promoting our mission and dedicated to achieving the aims of Scouting to make the world a better place.. one Scout at a time.
It’s that time of the year where many Wood badgers are being presented their beads.  Attending these beading ceremonies reinforces this idea of dedicated leaders.  As you watch the Wood Badger with his or her unit, among their friends and families and see the interaction with their Scouts it does not take long to see how dedicated they are to making Scouting the very best it can be for these young men in our program.  To see them with their new beads around their necks, sporting the Wood Badge regalia they have become a part of the dedicated link that has lasted since the first Wood badge course in 1912.  That is the Wood Badge difference and it will continue to be the difference for ever.
If you have been to Wood Badge… Thank you.  If you have not been yet.. go.  Make a difference.
Have a Great Scouting Day!

Are you a Messenger of Peace?

Posted on by • Posted in Character, Citizenship, Ideals, Journey to Excellence, Leadership, Oath and Law, Scout Law, Values • 3 Comments

Last week I was surprised when I was given the patch for the messenger of peace initiative.  This is a unit and individual recognition, and so when I got it while I was down at out council office, I was humbled.  The person that submitted it said that it was for the “Work I do using media to improve our Scouting world”.   Again, I am thankful, and I am sure that our unit is going to get this also for a recent project we completed.
The question came to my mind, why have I not seen anyone wearing this?  Are units unaware?  Are they just doing it?  It’s obviously not about the patch, but the initiative is such a worthy one, that we in the Scouting world should be embracing it.
I went back and reread the letter at the BSA web site.  I suppose I have always been one that is impressed with the grand scope of the Scouting movement.  In short I think it is cool to be apart of somehting this big and something that is world-wide and yet has shared values.  There is not much else in our world, save religions, that can say that.  And look what a mess religions have made in the world.  I am not suggesting that faith in a higher power has screwed things up.. I am saying however that people tend to screw it up.  Scouting seems to have stood the test of time.  Yes, we have our ups and downs, but the values and mission of the Scouting movement have not changed.  People come and go, but those that “Run Scouting” at the World and National levels all seem to understand the good that will come from Scouting when allowed.
I have talked with many Scouters about our National office and our Council/ District.  There seems to be an overwhelming idea that they are in it for the money and numbers.  And to that I say.. yes.. yes they are.  And then I say I am glad they are promoting the program, getting money and sponsors, pushing recruiting and retention, and developing relationships in our community.  If they didn’t do it.. who would.  ME?  No way.. I am to busy working Scouting where Scouting matters.  Being a messenger for peace starts at the unit level.  Where the Scouts are.  Too many Scouters get wrapped up in the wrong things.  They worry about what everyone else is doing, most of the time with little or no impact of them.. but people are people and you have to worry.  If they spent as much energy in their units, growing them, teaching them, letting them learn and develop, their unit would be world-class.  But they choose to get wrapped up in politics and he said she said.  This is how things get screwed up.  I guess that’s how things get messed up globally.
So back to my thinking about why I don’t see this patch around.  Well that thought led to our global Scouting community and how many Scouts and Scouters in the 220 countries and territories that are participating in this.  Just think.  Take 220 countries and have all their Scouts and Scouters working toward peace.  There would never be war again.  Oh silly me.  We would have to get the politicians out-of-the-way… but wait… we could.  The people could force this change.  I really believe that it could happen.
Remember that in 1920 there was a world Jamboree.. just a few years after the First World War.  If you know history, just because the war was over does not mean that things were peaceful, especially in Europe.  34 countries showed up
As most of you know, I am a combat veteran and I certainly support the efforts of our military and those that lead it, sometimes begrudgingly.  And I am believe that what we did in Iraq was just and worth it.  I have no regrets.  But when I look back at the pain that wars cause, the ripping apart at families, the destruction and the lives that have to be repaired after these conflicts it is it not uncommon to ask, Why?  What for?  Now there are bad people in the world and I for one am glad to know that the world no longer has a guy named Saddam Hussein on it.  Those people need to be stopped and removed.  The Hitlers and Stalin’s of the world need to go.  But dealing with the “Bad vacuum” is the next issue.  Enter Scouting and people with real good values.
As a messenger of peace I think it is up to us to do what we can to fix our Three meter zone.  We all can do it.  We just don’t.
I guess it all comes down to people.  How do we change them?  How do we effect that change in our community.  Baden-Powell had that idea back in 1907 and started seeing the reality of a world-wide peace movement as Scouting grew.  It is now up to us to carry that torch.  Will you?
Stop worrying about the things you can’t control.  Control the things you can and be an influence.  Influence this change in your units and community.  Demand more of your elected officials.. you know the folks that swear to work for you.  Hold their feet to the fire and don’t settle for men and women that lack character to be our leaders.  Work hard to fulfill the mission of Scouting.  Be a messenger of peace, let your actions speak louder than your words.  And for goodness sake let people know that we are committed to being an instrument of peace.
So what does it mean when I challenge you all to “Have a Great Scouting day”?  Live the values of Scouting.  Keep the promise that you make in the Oath.  Be a messenger of peace.
Have a Great Scouting Day!