Today, February 8th, is National Boy Scout Day. The Scouting movement in America began in 1909 when a Chicago publisher by the name of William Dickson Boyce became lost in the London fog and was assisted by a young boy to find his way.
As a proud Eagle Scout, I have incorporated the values I learned from my scouting days into my everyday life as well as my business. Scouting gave me many lifetime values that I still practice today. I consider myself in good company – there is a long list of Boy Scouts who have gone on to accomplish great things in their lives. Their accomplishments are both noteworthy and humbling.
Be A Good Scout
In dealing with people you know and strangers you will meet, being friendly, kind, and courteous makes your interactions much more pleasant. Sure, it’s not always easy to get along with everyone, but extending kindness and courtesy can go a long way toward having a peaceful and calm discussion, even in a situation where you may not see eye-to-eye with someone.
I have lived my life not just being reverent toward God but in respecting others’ religious beliefs. The power of prayer has been a part of how I run both my personal life as well as my business. My faith has helped me through some difficult times and combined with my Boy Scout training, I have always tried to have a positive view of the world around me.
So today, in honor of the Boy Scouts of America, take a little time to put into practice some of the Scouting principles. I promise you, you will feel better about yourself and those around you. If you need a refresher course, here you go.
Scout Oath
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.
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 the 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.