The Word of Life

 

Scouts are encouraged to be readers. We read books, articles, and blogs on success, Scouting, the outdoors, and our particular field of study. Too often, the one book we do not read is the only one that can change us: the Bible.

Every principle I have talked about in these readings are found in the Scriptures. I do not give you all the chapters and verses because I want you to search them out for yourself. As a believer, the Bible is your handbook for success. If you are ever told something contrary to what Scripture teaches, do not embrace it. No matter who (and that includes me) tells you. However, you will never know if you do not study the book.

“We also need a regular, systematic study of the Scriptures. We cannot maintain our spiritual life without it any more than we can maintain our physical bodies without proper nourishment.”

G. Campbell Morgan

1863-1945

Evangelist

 

Pastor and educator R.A. Torrey said, “Every Christian who does not study, really study, the Bible every day is a fool.” How can you think that you can make the right choices, have a clear vision, or achieve your dreams when you do not know what God expects of you? 

Many people, even Scouts, do not read the Bible because they think it is boring or not relevant to them. You will find no book more relevant and more helpful to the achievement of your dream than Scripture. D.L. Moody said, “I know the Bible is inspired because it inspires me.” The Bible teaches success, how to fight the battles of life, victorious living, and so much more.

I challenge you to make it a habit to read the Scriptures every day. Just read a few chapters in a systematic study. You are not filling a quota but learning lessons for life. Get a good study book to help you. There are tons of good Bible study material out there. Seek out what God has for you. Take notes, live the principles you learn, and promise you your life will be transformed, and you will have the power to move forward and achieve anything.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU083120 Freedom Paradox

Christmas 2020

Prayer Power

 

In all my dealings with people, the most common concern they have is praying – or should I say the lack of prayer. Scouts are Reverent, but they are also busy people, and there are times we are always on the run. When faced with a busy day, our prayer time is the first and most expendable thing to go. The reality is it’s the only thing we do in the course of our day that is not expendable.

“Prayer – secret, fervent, believing prayer – lies at the root of all personal godliness.”

William Carey

1761-1834

Missionary

 

I believe there are three areas concerning prayer that most people stumble on. 1) When to pray, 2) How to pray, and 3) What to pray. Let’s look at them:

·         When to pray:  I have heard that it is best to pray early in the morning, and then I heard late at night. I have heard that it is best to have times during the day to pray. No wonder people are confused. I have always believed that you know for yourself when the best time is. Missionary J. Hudson Taylor said, “Whatever is your best time of day, give that to communion with God.” He deserves your best.

·         How to pray:  I am not one for kneeling when I pray. Not because I do not respect being in the presence of the Lord, it is because if I kneel, I will fall asleep. I am the most alert when I pace. God knows that, and He would rather I was awake and attentive than fighting sleep. Billy Graham said, “It is not the body’s posture, but the heart’s attitude that counts when we pray.”

·         What to pray:  Scouts learn that there is nothing that is outside of God’s concern. That means that we pray for everything. Yes, God has given you wisdom and the ability to make decisions. I am not saying you pray to wear the red shirt or blue, but I am saying that you pray for all directions and guidance. As Charles Wesley said, “To God, your every wants in instant prayer display, Pray always; pray, and never faint; Pray, without ceasing, pray.”

Remember that you need to pray. It is not for God’s sake that we come to Him but for our own. As C.S. Lewis said, “Prayer does not change God; it changes me.”

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU082620 Your Lable

 

Food for the Hungry Mind

 

When it comes to nutrition, you can look at the Food Pyramid to see what you should eat daily to maintain good health. However, when it comes to the mind and heart, we seldom think about what we are consuming. The health of your mind and heart depends on the information you put into it. Scouts learn what they should NOT be feeding our minds and heart. We know what is wrong and unhealthy and work at avoiding them. What is it that we should be taking in?

“There are no constraints on the human mind, no walls around the human spirit,

no barriers to our progress except those we ourselves erect.”

Ronald Reagan

1911-2004

The 40^th U.S. President

 

I want to suggest and diet for your heart and mind in four primary groups. These groups will help you keep healthy and build good mental and spiritual health. They are:

·         Stimulation: Every day, you need to take in things that stimulate your mind. Find something that causes you to think and use your mental muscle. Good, meaningful conversations with other Scouts and Scouters. Good reading material and watching programs that make you think. Be curious about the world around you. Games are also useful to help develop your thinking habits. Benjamin Franklin said, “Games lubricate the body and the mind.”

·         Positive Information:  Be sure you have useful positive input every day. You are reading books and articles about Scouting that are motivating and encouraging. Remember that the more positive you are, the more positive others will be toward you. Tom Stoppard said, “A healthy attitude is contagious but don’t wait to catch it from others. Be a carrier.”

·         Godly Input:  Spend time in the Word of God (the Bible) and prayer every day. Find a good devotional to read that helps you develop a healthy walk with the Lord. Evangelist A.W. Pink said, “Daily living by faith on Christ is what makes the difference between the sickly and the healthy Christian, between the defeated and the victorious saint.”

·         Learning:  Henry Ford said, “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.” Learn something new every day. Take classes or start a project. If you are learning, you are alive.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU082420 Expensive Gifts

The Success Habit

 

We have all heard someone say they are a “creature of habit.” The fact is, we are all creatures of habit. We are very aware of some habits and others we never notice, but they are habits all the same. Look at things like how you get dressed, how you go to or from work, even the way you eat – all habits that we do without thinking about them. Novelist Agatha Christie said, “Curious things habits.  People themselves never knew they had them.”

Scouts learn to understand that the habits we form in our thinking have more impact on our lives than the habits we perform. A person can avoid behavioral habits like drugs, drinking, and sexual bondage and still be a slave to fear, anger, and negative thinking. Nineteenth-Century pastor and educator Alexander Vinet said, “Habits of thought are not less tyrannical than other habits, and a time comes when return is impossible, even to the strongest will.”

“Successful people are simply those with successful habits.”

Brian Tracy

Author

 

It takes far more than will power to change a bad thinking habit. You can feed yourself a day full of positive affirmations and still find the night full of fear and negative thinking. A man or woman can change his or her behavior, but only God's power can change the heart. Even Scouts can buy into the trick that all you have to do is stop thinking negatively and start thinking positively to have a good thinking habit. It is more than that. Fear and anger are heart problems, not behavior problems. Only the power of Christ Jesus in a person's life can change the heart and bring peace and confidence.

Some may say, “But I am a Christian, and my life belongs to Christ, and yet I still have fear and anger in me.” That is usually because you see the peace and positive thinking that Christ brings, as a rule, to follow rather than a life to live. Some see Christ’s instruction to be at peace as a command and try on their own to follow it. It is not a rule, but a direction on how to live and, therefore, will keep itself. Frank Crane said, “Habits are safer than rules; you don’t have to watch them. And you don’t have to keep them either. They keep you.”

Once you have built a positive and healthy habit, you do not have to fight the inner battle. It is how you live, how you look at the world, and how you react to things that happen around you. Live a life of victory and maintain good habits in your heart, as well as in your behavior.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU081920 Questioning Teachers

 

Cleaning Out the Garbage

 

Addictions are not anything new. People have suffered from addictions since man has been on the earth. The human condition is such that we are truly creatures of habit. Some habits are good, and some are bad – but all are habits. Charles Noble correctly said, "First, we make our habits, then our habits make us."It all comes down to whether you want to control your habits or have your habits control you.

Scouts come to understand that there is a difference between doing something from habit and an addiction. Addictions are never acceptable. The addiction can be to chemicals like drugs, alcohol, food, or medication, or they can have more of an emotional base like that of bad relationships, sex, fame, pride, or greed. No matter nature, all addictions take you out of control and make you a slave. American Historian Christopher Lasch said, "Drugs are merely the most obvious form of addiction in our society. Drug addiction is one of the things that undermine traditional values."Addictions make people weak and unable to live lives of victory.

"God doesn't seek for golden vessels, and does not ask for silver ones,

but He must have clean ones."

D. L. Moody

1837-1899

Evangelist

 

Scouts learn that the overcoming of addictions is the making of a better, more moral society. Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, "The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children." Scouting principles are not just for now but also to make a better future for our children and our children's children. One of Scouting's motivators is to create a more moral and wholesome society to live in. That means that we must remove the unclean habits of our life and be an example to others.

Scouting realizes that there will always be people who are slaves to addictions of every kind. We understand that there will be evil and wickedness in the world until the Lord returns; however, that is not a reason for giving in to uncleanness. Scouts know that even if they only clean up their act, that is one less person in the world doing wrong. The way to a better world is only through making ourselves better. It will not happen by passing laws or controlling people; it only occurs with a transformed life: the Holy Spirit's work. Let it start with us. As German Philosopher Johanna Wolfgang von Goethe said, "Let everyone sweep in front of his own door, and the world will be clean."

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU081720 Lessons of Childhood

Clean Mind / Clean Heart

 

If you asked ten people what a clean mind is, at least 8 of them would tell you something about the absents of sexual thoughts. When it comes to our mind's state, it seems that sex is the first thing to be looked at. Many people spend a good deal of their time thinking about sex or sexual things. However, I believe that there is a more significant threat to our mind's health, and it comes in the form of anger, resentment, envy, and selfishness.

Businessman W. Clement Stone defined bondage this way: "Bondage is – subjection to external influences and internal negative thoughts and attitudes."When we allow our thoughts to be dominated by negativity and uncleanness, we keep ourselves in bondage. There is no freedom to the man or woman who is imprisoned in their mind. Scouts learn that true freedom is not what is on the outside but the inside. A person can have no restrictions on their life and yet be a slave.

"Be strong in body, clean in mind, lofty in ideals."

James Naismith

1861-1939

Educator

 

Scouts train their minds and keep harmful and unclean out of their thought habits. Radio Bible teacher Chuck Swindoll said, "The secret of living a life of excellence is merely a matter of thinking thoughts of excellence. It's a matter of programming our minds with the kind of information that will set us free." 

I have always found it interesting that the one thing we have full power over – our minds – is the one thing we allow so many other things to control. We are influenced by movies, books, music, and society. For some, they surrender their mind to every wind that blows through and does little to control their thinking habits.

Scouting believes that their mental health is as essential as physical health. They feed their mind positive, wholesome information, and purposely avoid any negative or unclean thinking. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said, "Great thoughts and a pure heart, that is what we should ask from God." With great thoughts and a pure heart, you can achieve anything. Once you have your head cleaned up, the rest is just detail stuff. 

All greatness first starts in mind. If the mind is unclean, all your actions will be unclean. Augustus Hare said, "As to the pure all things are pure, even so to the impure all things are impure."Keep your mind clean and healthy, and success will be yours.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU081220 Grow Up

 

Keeping the Temple

 

Scouts learn that they must take care of their bodies and keep them healthy and functioning. After all, as Jim Rohn said, “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” If you are weak and sick all the time, you will find it very difficult to successfully achieving your dreams. Even if those dreams do not require a lot of physical activity, it is hard to do anything when you do not feel well.

Taking care of your body is not a hard thing to do. It would help if you treated it like the temple scripture says it is. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 3:16, “Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” If we are temples, should we not treat our bodies with the respect that requires? Musician Henry Rollins put it when he said, “Keep your blood clean, your body lean, and your mind sharp.”

“Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body,

 it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.”

John F. Kennedy

1917-1963

35^th U.S. President

 

Success expert Tony Robbins always talks of the body being the vehicle we drive to success. We cannot run out of steam when we are driving up the hill of success. Robbins said, “The higher your energy level, the more efficient your body. The more efficient your body, the better you feel, and the more you will use your talents to produce outstanding results.” The better you feel, the better you will perform, the more energy you will have to preserver, and the happier you will be with the results.

Let’s face it; Scouts need to know that when your body is in shape and your energy level high, you feel great. There is nothing better than that feeling of being unstoppable when you are pursuing your dream. 

There are four keys to gaining a strong and healthy body: 1) Eat right. 2) Exercise and move around. 3) Get adequate rest. 4) Live a simple life. The last one is essential. The more complicated your life, the harder it is to stay fit. Albert Einstein said, “I believe that a simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, best both for the body and the mind.”

This body you have is the only one you get. Take care of it. Treat it like a temple. Could you keep it clean, healthy, and useable? Scouts learn that the better you care for your body, the better your life will be.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU081020 The Impossible

You Become What You Eat

 

Now, I am sure you expect me to tell you to stop eating junk food, go vegetarian, and never drink coffee again. Well, I am not doing that. You see, I believe that you have the right and freedom to choose what you eat. I wouldn't say I like it when people or the government tells us what we can and cannot do. 

You have to understand that with choice comes responsibility. You cannot just do what you want and not deal with the consequences of your action. Scouts and Scouters learn that just because they can do something does not mean they should. You can eat Twinkies until they come out of your ears, but you have to deal with the harm that can do to your body.

"You’ve got bad eating habits is you use a grocery cart in 7-Eleven.”

Dennis Miller

Comedian

 

I, like many Scouters, have struggled with eating right and my weight. In 2001, I had heart surgery and, since then, had to be more aware of my diet. I eat well, low-fat foods, and most organics. My problem was I would eat a lot at one time. I am not one for diets but found that regular exercise and proper portions do the trick.

The key to eating right is to use wisdom as to what you eat. Deep-fried foods and Twinkies are not a wise choice. However, you don’t have to eat like a rabbit either. Dave Barry said, “Eating rice cakes is like chewing on a foam coffee cup, only less filling.” There is a lot of good tasty food out there you can enjoy. I believe that every diet can work; the problem is never the diet; it is your ability and willingness to follow it. That being true, I think we can create our diet, stay with it, and win the battle.

There is also an abundance of material out there to help you know what foods are acceptable, how much to eat, and how to exercise. Don’t think you know it all; use the wisdom God has given to others. My friend, author, and fitness expert John M. Rowley has a great blog I often go to for guidance and advice. 

Remember that you can make choices; make them wisely. Food is the fuel that you need to run. Do not be giving yourself bad fuel and expect top performance. Eat right, and you will enjoy the results, not because you have to or because others are forcing you but because you make a choice.  

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 062920 Wrong is Wrong

 

Thanksgiving 2020

No Cowards

 

I know that to say someone courageous is also brave is a bit redundant, but I wanted to point out the quality of bravery. The idea of being brave has fallen into some misunderstanding over the past few years. Society has tried to soften it and make it something gentile and passive. The courageous person (in this wrong thinking) walks away from conflict and is willing to stand by while evil pushes forward. That is not bravery, nor is that using wisdom. The proper name for this behavior is cowardice.

Socrates said, “He is a man of courage who does not run away, but remains at his post and fights against the enemy.” Our society wants brave men and women who will stand up and call out what is wrong. Those who will not allow the dictators of political correctness and social reforming to have their way will stand up for truth, godliness, and honor. Scouts are the brave few who will stand for what is right against current trends and social reforms. It isn't easy to be the only one who stands for truth, but the Scout must do so.  Sir Robert Baden-Powell said, “We never fail when we try to do our duty; we always fail when we neglect to do it.”

“Courage is doing what you are afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you are scared.”

Eddie Rickenbacker

1890-1973

WW1 Flying Ace

 

Just as our brave men and women who are on the battlefield fields in the military, we too are fighting a war. It is a war of culture and social weakness. We fight against those who take away our rights daily in the name of political correctness and socialism. They fight against success and personal achievement to keep control of us and not allow anyone to be all we can be. It takes brave Scouts to stand up and push back against the bullies of our society. We have a destiny, and we will fulfill it!

Scouts know that this is a spiritual battle as well as a cultural one. Scouts must stand for what we know. God has called us to do. We stand for righteousness, holiness, and truth. Our example is Jesus Christ Himself, who bravely gave His life so that others may know God.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 062220 A Good Choice

 

You First

 

Most of the time, we think of selfishness in terms of giving and possessions. We do not think of courage and bravery as an alternative to selfishness – but they are. The counterbalance of being selfish is to be selfless. It takes courage to be selfless. That is why so few care to do it. Selflessness means sacrifice and putting others before yourself. It means you are willing to face an inconvenience to help someone else succeed. Scouts and Scouters understand what Tony Robbins meant when he said, “Only those who have learned the power of sincere and selfless contribution experience life’s deepest joy. True fulfillment.”

Some teach that to be successful; you must look out for number one. It would be best if you did all you can to be sure you come in first in the race of life, and no one should be able to get past you. Scouts know that the real winners in life are those who have helped others to win first. Scouts see the truth in the statement by English writer Richard Whately who said, “A man is called selfish not for pursuing his good, but for neglecting his neighbor’s.” The pursuit of your dream is essential, and you must and should give all to its achievement; however, giving all is never at the expense of others' good. Scouts and Scouters can do both.

“Great achievement is usually born of great sacrifice, and is never the result of selfishness.”

Napoleon Hill

1883-1970

Author

 

It takes real courage to be selfless. Throughout history and even in the current news, you will always find brave deeds are done from a spirit of selflessness. Those who give their life for others, those who risk all to make life better for others, those who teach and care for others to help them improve their lives, not to stay where they are. These are all acts of the most extraordinary bravery.

The achievement of your dreams will make the world better. You may be building a business that will employ others and produce a product that makes life better. You may be an educator who teaches valid values and character to others to make them better citizens of the world. There is never anything that the Scout does that does not help and change others' lives. Our focus is always on helping others, but that does not mean we put our dreams aside. The better you are, the better we all are. That takes courage!

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 061720 Paperclips and Airplains

Your Duty

 

The pursuit of success and achievement has many paths to follow. Some are filled with adventure and some with hard work. Each track, however, leads you to the fulfillment of your dream. There is one that stands out above the rest. It holds the difference between real Scout and someone who is just going through the motions. That is the path of duty.

Scouts and Scouters understand that duty is more than “things you have to do.” Your duty is a sacred honor that is done with joy. As Commander of West Point Academy, Robert E. Lee said, “duty is the sublimest word in the language. You can never do more than your duty. You should never wish to do less.” 

“Personal courage isn’t the absence of fear; rather,

it’s the ability to put fear aside and do what’s necessary.”

U.S. Army Leadership Field Manual

 

Scouts and Scouters see their duty in many areas. They have a duty to God, be faithful, worship Him, and serve Him with all their hearts. A duty to their family, to be a person of integrity and faithfulness who can be trusted. It is a duty to those they work for and with, do an excellent job at whatever they do, and always go farther than what is expected of them. A duty to society to be an example of honesty, godliness, and right living. Scouts know that they have more at stake than just achieving their dreams – they will change the world.

The fulfillment of our duty is not always a grand and glorious display. Most of the time, few if any people will ever notice. Helen Keller said, “I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.” Duty is a matter of the heart; it is our attitude that will make a difference. If we believe that doing our duty is “great and noble” as Helen Keller said, we will find great satisfaction in doing it.

Do not make the mistake of thinking that to do your duty to others is a burden you must bear for success' sake. It is a wonderful part of life all on its own. Blaise Pascal said, “He that takes truth for his guide, and duty for his end, may safely trust God’s providence to lead him aright.” It will be in the course of doing your duty to others that you will find your greatest fulfillment, for in doing this duty, we will achieve our most tremendous success.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 061520 Think A Better Day

 

Beyond Talent

 

Scouts and Scouters learn to have a belief in themselves to succeed. People are often limited because they think they need talent to succeed. Talent is nice, and you can use your abilities (everyone has them) in your particular area of achievement, but that is not all it takes. You have to be a person of action, and action does not take talent.

Dr. John C. Maxwell, in his 2007 book, Talent Is Not Enough, said, “The first and greatest obstacle to success for most people is their belief in themselves. Once people figure out where their sweet spot is (the area where they are most gifted), what often hinders them isn’t a lack of talent. It’s a lack of trust in themselves, which is a self-imposed limitation.” When you see yourself as limited, you stop trying. You stop taking action, and without action, nothing will get done.

“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”

Dale Carnegie

1888-1955

Author

 

We have been looking at the Scout Law. A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent; none of these qualities take talent. These are things every Scout and Scouter choose to be. The same is correct with action. You do not need talent to be a person of action; you only need to get things done.

Scouts are determined to live their dreams. Sadly, they often know what they want but find a dozen reasons why they cannot have it. They see limitations all around them. There is not enough money, education, experience, knowledge, support, too old, too young, too sick, too weak, and the reasons go on and on. The only thing you need is the desire for your dream and the guts to go for it.

Scouts must understand that to live their dream is a privilege that most people miss. You have the chance to be all you were created to be, to have all you ever wanted, and to live life and not just fill a space. John Irving said, “If you are lucky enough to find a way of life you love, you have to find the courage to live it.”

No one is going to do this for you. You have to have to courage to move forward and do what must be done to achieve your dream. You know what it is, you know what you must do, you understand the cost. Now go for it.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 061020 You Can Fix It

Risky Business

 

For many people, the biggest obstacle they face to pursuing their dreams is found in two little words – “What If!” The “What If’s” of life has defeated far too many people before they even get started. “What if I fail?” “What if something happens?” “What if no one likes what I am doing?” You can “What if” yourself into failure every time. 

It takes courage to go after your dream—the courage to face the unknown. Courage to take risks. Courage to be willing to fail on your way to success. As Walt Disney said, “All our dreams can come true if we dare to pursue them.” 

“No man is worth his salt who is not ready at all times to risk his well-being,

to risk his body, to risk his life, in a great cause.”

Theodore Roosevelt

1858-1919

26^th U.S. President

 

Scouts learn that you can plan for the future, but you cannot see it. No one knows what tomorrow will bring. This is why you need to be prepared for tomorrow. Being prepared is to be ready so that nothing will catch you by surprise. If you are looking to have some assurance of success or outcome, you will never move forward. Earl Nightingale had it right when he said, “All you need is the plan, the road map, and the courage to press on to your destination.”

As a Scouter, you realize that there is a risk in all you do. God, in His wisdom, has not given you the ability to see all the pitfalls and roadblocks ahead. Many of us want to see them, but the truth is, if we knew what was coming, we would never try to achieve our dreams. To believe in your vision, you must have a faith that God will see you through, and a determination that you will never give up is what gives you the power to achieve. Too much knowledge of the future is a dangerous thing. That is why we are told in Scripture not to look into the future. Taking the unknown risk is the element of life.

Study the lives of those who have succeeded, and you will find men and women who were courageous enough to take risks. Singer/Songwriter Dolly Parton said, “You’ll never be a whole lot unless you’re brave enough to try.” The Scouters of the world know as did Helen Keller that life is “a daring adventure,” and they will not miss a moment of it.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 060820 A Good Reciever

The "No" Compromise

 

Compromise is one of those words that have been high-jacked and had its meaning changed. We are taught and told that to compromise is a good thing. It means you are reasonable and thoughtful. People who do not compromise are viewed as rigid and nasty people who are greedy and selfish. When you are deciding on what to have for dinner, compromise can be a good thing. When you are looking at morals and what is right, compromise is always wrong and should have no place in the life of the Scouter.

It is interesting that when it comes to moral and ethical issues, those who believe in compromise will try to make people feel guilty and selfish. What they are saying is that to compromise is to agree with them. They do not give in to what is right. Scouts learn that you cannot compromise morals and ethics. You are either doing what is right or doing what is wrong; no middle ground is there. Pastor Jonathan Farwell of Thomas Roads Baptist Church put it right when he said, “It is so important that our churches, our Christian schools and we, as individuals, do not allow non-Christian influences to influence our beliefs.”

“Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.”

W. Clement Stone

1902-2002

Businessman

 

Here is a problem I have had with many Scouters who are Christians. Too often, we do not stand fully by our faith because we do not wish to offend anyone. I also do not want to be offensive, but I cannot say that any religious belief is okay. I know that there is only one way to God, and that is through Jesus Christ. Not my idea but God’s. I believe that all Scouters need to make that clear when confronted with questions of faith. In the words of A.W. Tozer, “We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum.” Hard words, but the truth sometimes is. That is why it takes courage to face it.

Never fall for the argument of compromise. You cannot compromise on truth. It stands as it is, or it is not the truth. Standing for what is moral, ethical, and spiritually truthful is not easy. However, for the Scout, there is no other way. You cannot compromise on this one.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 060320 Make Your Map

Standing for Right

 

Who would have thought that we would come to the day that “what is right” would be open to debate? I have seen people in business, the church, education, and even Scouting; they cut the corners of truth and honor to get what they want. Not because what they want is wrong or harmful in any way, but because it is easy and comfortable has become more desired than truth. Oh, they can justify it in a hundred ways, but it is still wrong. As French philosopher Albert Camus said, “Those who lack courage will always find a philosophy to justify it.”

Scouts and Scouters need to understand that standing for what is right is never a matter of perspective. Right is right. Truth, justice, honor, and duty are always the right thing to do. We do not bend things or hide from the truth. Is this easy? No, it is not. Do we all fall short at times? Yes, I am sorry to say we all do. However, the fact that we may fail at times does not mean it is okay. Ronald Reagan once said, “There are no easy answers, but there are simple answers. We must have the courage to do what we know is morally right.”

“I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have. I must stand with anybody that stand right, and stand with him while he is right, and part with him when he goes wrong.”

Abraham Lincoln

1809-1865

16^th President of the U.S.

 

Scouts should know that to do what they know is morally right will not always be popular, even among those who know to do right. It takes courage to stand alone, and in the effort to do what is right, we all must, at some time, stand-alone. Scouts believe as Andrew Jackson did when he said, “One man with courage is a majority.” You are never alone when you stand for the right. One person can change events by standing their ground and doing what they know is right.

It is easy to stand against significant wrongs in the world. Corporate dishonesty, crime, sexual immorality, and harming others are all easily seen and opposed by those who are courageous and honorable. However, it is the small things that get us. Turning our eyes away from wrong because “it is none of our business,” lying to cover a wrong you have done, and taking things that are not yours just because you can. It takes a courageous person to know that just because “everyone seems to do it,” you cannot. You are a Scout, and cheating and lying do not become you.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU 060120 Be Prepared

 

You Are What You Read

 

People do different things when they go into the homes and offices of others. Some look at the artwork and how it is decorated. Some people like to peek in people’s medician cabinets or refrigerators. I look at their books. I can learn a lot from the books on a person’s shelves – or lack of them. I believe, as a Roman statesman, Marcus Tullius Cicero said, “A home without books is a body without a soul.”

Scouts and Scouters should be passionate readers. However, my experience tells me that many are not. I have heard all the basic excuses for not spending time with books. “I am not a good reader.” “I don’t like reading.” “I have to read so much in school that I don’t want to do it in my free time.” The excuses go on and on. Sadly, they all boil down to one reason. It is called laziness.

“If a man is known by the company he keeps,

so also his character is reflected in the books he reads.”

J. Oswald Sanders

1902-1992

Author

 

Here is the truth about reading. We have more access to books and reading material than ever in human history. Not so long ago, if you wanted to take books with you on a trip, you had to lug several volumes along with all your other stuff. Today you can bring entire libraries full of books all stored in your phone. Not only can you get any text you want on a device, but there are thousands of them for free. There is no excuse for not finding something that interests you, or that will help you on your path in life.

One of the greatest privileges we have is the ability to read. If you are reading this post, you have that gift. Do not let it be wasted. Mark Twain once said, “The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man who cannot read them.” Books can open doors of opportunity for you, unlike anything you will find. Books offer adventure, skills, knowledge, and power. Formal education is limited, but books have no limits and no expiration date. You can read the work from great men and women centuries-old or those who wrote only yesterday.

As a Scout, make books a constant companion. It does not matter if they are hard copies you hold in your hand or electronic versions on your phone or tablet. What matters is that you read the. Read what you enjoy. The range of material is vast. Fiction, nonfiction, science fiction, biography, technology, crafts, sports, or even cooking. They are all there waiting for you to discover then. Once you do, I promise you; the adventure will never end.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU032520 Reverent

Imitate Who?

 

I have told you before, and I still hold to it, I am so grateful that I grew up during a time when we had heroes. Heroes were more than people we admired and whose example we followed. Our heroes were the people we wanted to become. They were to ones we imitated.

That act of imitating the people we admire has not changed. That is basic human behavior. What has changed are the qualities and values which we use to make those we call heroes. Somewhere along the line, we took a turn from those who do good and are people of character and integrity to people who have negative attitudes, seek out fights, and refuse to think of anyone besides themselves. As a Scout, what you must understand is that the example you follow is up to you, not the person who you are looking to follow.

“Children have never been very good at listening to their elders,

but they have never failed to imitate them.”

James Baldwin

1924-1987

Author

 

Scouts and Scouters have a significant advantage when it comes to finding heroes. The Scout Oath and Law give us a list of qualities that we need to seek out in those whose example we want to follow. The Oath and Law also give us the direction we need to set an example for those whose lives we will influence. We influence no one more than our children. Actor Johnny Depp said, “When you have children, there is no room for lies, no room for anything but the truth. Anything other than that is a bad example, I believe.”

Always remember that heroes are important. It is important to have heroes who we can follow and whose example we use as a road map to good character and right living. It is also essential to be a hero. Some may say that we do not set out to be a hero; it just happens to us. I do not believe that is true. Being a hero is a place of responsibility and honor. These are deliberate acts that we not only choose, but we develop throughout our lives. As a Scout, look at the rich heritage of heroes in Scouting over its 110-year history. Make it your goal to add your name to that list.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

Duty to God

 

Responsible Cash Flow

 

Scouts and Scouters face a real threat that comes with the achievement of their dreams. That is a success. Especially financial success. The sudden gain of wealth has ruined many a well-intentioned person. Just as we talked about being prepared for success, you must be prepared to handle wealth as well. Money is like fire. If managed and controlled correctly, it can do great good. If misused and allowed to go wild, it destroys everything in its path.

Allow me to point out three things all Scouts should remember about wealth:

One is that money is never meant to be used to compete with another’s lifestyles. O. Donald Olson said, “The average American is busy buying things he doesn’t want with money he doesn’t have to impress people he doesn’t like.” The Scouter, who knows how to handle wealth, never allows his or her lifestyle to run ahead of their income. They are thrifty, practical, and live a comfortable everyday life.

“If a person gets his attitude toward money straight, it will help straighten out

almost every other area of his life.”

Billy Graham

1918-2018

Evangelist

 

Second, wealth is a blessing and should be enjoyed. I am not talking about spending it on big houses and little cars, but to be able to live a life that you want and free from the burdens of debts. Scouters who have achieved wealth should never be in debt. Scripture tells us that the debtor is a slave to the lender. Wealth allows you never to be a slave again.

Third, and the most important, wealth is the result of hard work and achievement. It comes from the service you provide to others. Never allow wealth to distract you from that. Never stop working and serving others. Henry Ford said, “Wealth, like happiness, is never attained when sought after directly. It comes as a by-product of providing a useful service.” Never make money your goal. Money in itself is useless and far too unstable. Make your goal to serve others and provide a useful product. Let wealth be the reward of your hard work, not the cause of it.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey

SOU031820 Do What Counts

Should a Scout Tithe?

 

If there is an issue that causes heated debate in the Christian Church, it is the subject of tithing. The sad thing is that there should never be a question about how much we should give to the Lord. It is all His. All we have or will have is His. A better way to think is how much is He giving to us. God does not need your money; you need to give it. This is for you and your development. It is not to support the church or keep pastors out of the poor house; it is for you and your growth. Dave Ramsey said, “I call this the great misunderstanding, the idea that we give because churches need our money.”

Scouts and Scouters learn that God provides the needs for His work and His people. However, He does not just drop money from the sky. In His great wisdom and plan, God allows His people to earn money – for some a great deal of money – and we then have the privilege of being the avenues He uses to supply the needs of others and His work. It saddens me to see believers in Jesus Christ who have been financially blessed fussing over what they owe in a tithe. I think of the words of the great John Wesley, who said, “Earn all you can, save all you can, give all you can.”

“God doesn’t need us to give Him our money. He owns everything.

Tithing is God’s way to grow Christians.”

Adrian Rogers

1934-2005

Pastor

 

As we review our finances, the tithe should be the first thing we account for. God blesses those who bless Him. Scouts learn you do not give to get from God or to win His favor. His love was never and will never be, based on the amount you give. Again, there is a principle being taught here. It is a character issue for Christian. Want to know where your heart is? Look at how you deal with money. Henry Ford pointed out, “Money doesn’t change men, it merely unmasks them. If a man is naturally selfish, or arrogant, or greedy, the money brings it out: that’s all.”

As a Scout, you must understand that the tithe is not the total amount you give; it is the starting point. It is the sacred duty of the Scout to tithe. It is done cheerfully and without regret. Once that is done, then we can look at what we can give to others. You do not and should not give to every cause or ministry that asks. Connect to those you have a passion for and share your values. Invest in the things of God; do not just throw your money at them. God does not need your money; He needs you.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey