SOU & BSA part 2

In the last blog, we talked about the connection, or lack of, between the BSA & SOU. I wrote this in answer to several questions I received, asking how the two organizations were connected. Scouting Out of Uniform (SOU) was built to show how the principles found in the Scout Oath & Law can lead anyone, whether a Scouter or not, to a more successful life. The principles taught there are the foundation of all successful living. They are the bases for building good character and moral living. It is the fact that these principles work for anyone that is reflected in being “Out of Uniform.”

 The laws of success, as the laws of nature or the laws of God, do not change. They are dependable and when followed, they work every time. No matter what you believe or confess, if you jump off a building, you will hit the ground every time. Not because you did not believe enough, but because the law of gravity works every time – no exceptions. If you follow the teachings given in Scripture, you will have a fulfilled life. If not, you will deal with the consequences. It never fails and never changes.

 

 “The Scout Law is the foundation on which the whole of Scout training rests.”

Sir Robert Baden-Powell

1857-1941

Founder of the Boy Scouts

 

The same is true for the laws of success. Many great books and teachers have given us the laws of success. They may use different words at times, but they all come down to the same basic principles. I have chosen to use the Scout Oath & Law because I think it defines these principles clearly and simply. The path to a successful life comes to those who practice being: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent.

It is one thing to be able to recite these 12 parts of the Scout Law from memory; it is quite another to be able to incorporate them in your daily life. Successful living has never been an easy way of life. That is why so few people do it. It takes work and years of making it part of who we are as people. That is one reason I supported Scouting, in that it taught these principles you young people and made it part of who they were as citizens and individuals.

No matter what happens to Scouting as an organization, the principles given to us in the Scout Oath & Law will remain a clear and simple map to a successful life of meaning and contribution. You do not have to be a Scout to have the Oath and Law work in your life. However, you do have to have the Oath and Law at work in your life to be a Scout.

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