One of the
key qualities taught in Scouting is that of self-reliance. Self-reliance is more than just being able to
survive in the woods, it is being able to do what is right, even when you are
the only one doing it. We live in a day when
you are the outsider if you stand for what is good, right, moral and true. Compromise is the word of the day and those
who will not compromise their moral code are seen as hard, unfair and mean. The fact is, they are really the kindest of
all.
It takes courage and conviction
to be willing to stand alone for the right.
These people are the heroes of the day and as with all heroes, they face
the challenges of life with a brave and determine spirit. Others can give in to social pressures and
allow themselves to be bullied into doing what they know is wrong, but not
those who are willing to stand alone if needs are
before they will compromise the truth for a lie.
“To be able to lead others, a man must be willing to go forward alone.”
– Harry Truman
(1884-1972)
33rd
U.S. President
Scouts take an oath to do their best to do their duty to God and country.
They promise to obey the Scout Law, and that is not a simple promise. That
means they will be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly,
courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.
These are the qualities of one who does what is right because it is right. That
takes courage and personal strength. Traits
that are developed in Scouting.
There is no greater lesson for
young people to learn today than that of truth and principle. Winston Churchill once said, "A man does
what he must - in spite of personal consequences, in spite of obstacles and
dangers and pressures - and that is the basis of all human morality." To teach our young people to be moral, right
and principled, is to teach them to be brave, courageous and heroic.
Never allow others to give you
your convictions and beliefs in life. We
all know right from wrong; good from evil.
Follow what you know is right and stand alone if you must to see that it
happens. The world needs more heroes and
you are just the one to fill the need.
You matter! You matter to the
world and to yourself. Remember to be
your best, love God, have good manners, achieve the unknown and change your
world.
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. © 2018 John Patrick Hickey
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