A friend of my son is achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, which is a pretty amazing achievement for someone still in high school. It got me thinking about the oaths and slogans that are bandied about in scouting. I find it helpful to look at the ideals and beliefs of organizations and different faith traditions. We’re human, and as such we are flawed so any ideals we put out there will not be achieved by everyone 100% of the time.
I know that the Boy Scouts of America is in a state of transition and its ideals in the past were ignored or upheld in very biased ways. I’m not looking to get into a deep discussion or dialog about the good and bad of scouting. I want to focus on just one thing: The Scout Law.
Scout Law
The Scout Law has 12 points. Each is a goal for every Scout. A Scout tries to live up to the Law every day. It is not always easy to do, but a Scout always tries.
A Scout is:
TRUSTWORTHY
Tell the truth and keep promises. People can depend on you.
LOYAL
Show that you care about your family, friends, Scout leaders, school, and country.
HELPFUL
Volunteer to help others without expecting a reward.
FRIENDLY
Be a friend to everyone, even people who are very different from you.
COURTEOUS
Be polite to everyone and always use good manners.
KIND
Treat others as you want to be treated . Never harm or kill any living thing without good reason.
OBEDIENT
Follow the rules of your family, school, and pack. Obey the laws of your community and country.
CHEERFUL
Look for the bright side of life. Cheerfully do tasks that come your way. Try to help others be happy.
THRIFTY
Work to pay your own way. Try not to be wasteful. Use time, food, supplies, and natural resources wisely.
BRAVE
Face difficult situations even when you feel afraid. Do what you think is right despite what others might be doing or saying.
CLEAN
Keep your body and mind fit . Help keep your home and community clean.
REVERENT
Be reverent toward God. Be faithful in your religious duties. Respect the beliefs of others.
From: The Boy Scouts of America FAQ.
Opinion
These are wonderful ideas to live by. The world would be a better place if people followed the Scout Law.
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