The Strength of the Gentle

What are the ingredients of a superhero? They are made up of things like kindness, courage, friendliness, helpfulness, and trustworthiness. Sound familiar? You got it, it is the same things that make us a Scout. The difference is that most superheroes are fictional, Scouts, on the other hand, are real.

There are times when it seems like the whole world is hard and unkind. The people you pass on the street frown and look like they will bite your head off if you so much as whisper a "Good Morning". The news is full of stories of all the mean and nasty things people do to each other. No one has a kind word about anything or anyone. Is there no hope left in the world?

                Now comes out superheroes. The Boy Scouts. The one who smiles at everyone with that nuclear smile that melts the hardest heart. This hero has the superpower to say and do the kindest things with the ease of the preverbal hot knife in butter. While the people around them are mumbling, they are humming a happy tune and ready to win the day for goodness.

“The is nothing stronger in the world than gentleness.”

– Han Suyin

(1917-2012)

Author

                Okay. I admit I have gone a bit extreme here. However, there are times in this sad world that the person who is positive, kind and happy seems like a long-awaited superhero. Here is the best part. Ready for this? Are you sitting down? You, my friend, are that hero! Yes, you.

                A positive mindset and a happy heart is nothing more than a choice we make every day. They are not gifts from on high or things we must study for and earn our "Heroes" degree. You just choose to be positive and to be kind to others. In fact, when you act kind and happy toward others it really builds on itself and you become stronger and stronger with each passing person. This is why Scouts are encouraged to do a good turn daily. It establishes a habit, one that changes them and changes those they come in contact with.

                The world needs as many heroes as it can get. It seems like things and going down the toilet but the truth is there are many, many people who are happy, kind and do wonderful things for humanity. Be that hero and make a difference in the lives of every person you come in contact with. As the 19th century English critic, William Hazlitt said, "A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles."  Be one who accomplishes miracles.

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