The Game Plan

When people think of the Scout Law they think of young boys trying to do good.  The idea of "acting like a Boy Scout" is even used as a criticism.  Our social structure has gotten so off balanced that we now think that being good, following the rules and believing in character and integrity of outdated and odd.  I can remember that when you wanted to stress the fact that you were telling the truth you would say, “Scout’s honor”.  However, the idea of honor is also one that has fallen by the wayside.  The fact is, we need these qualities more than ever before.  The consequence of not having them is evident all around us.

Following the Scout Law sounds like a game plan that would give us all a better chance of success in life - and I mean every area of life.”

Zig Ziglar

1926-2012

Author

                The Scout Law, to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent, are all qualities that make for a healthy and strong person and society.  These are not just qualities you want to see in young people (although you do what them there), but in all of us and in every area of our life.  What does business not want someone who is honest, dependable and hardworking?  What area of life do you not need to be loyal, trustworthy, kind or friendly?  How much better would your daily experience be if you and all you met were cheerful, courteous and kind?

                Maybe it is because the Scout Law has been around so long and people have gotten used to it that we pay such little attention to it.  The Scout Law has the power to not only transform the world to a better place but even greater, to transform you into a better person. 

                Look at the Scout Law.  In fact, write out all the qualities listed there.  Now honestly, mark the ones that you show daily.  I will say that if you are reading this blog you most likely have more than the average person.  However, you will find that you do not display as many as you thought you would.  This is not to point out where you may have failed, but rather to show you an opportunity to become better.

                One of the development goals I gave myself last year was to assign one of the qualities of the Scout Law to each month.  All during the month, I would work at developing that quality in my life.  I found it very helpful and the practice made me a stronger person.  Have I achieved all the qualities in my life by now?  Not even close.  I must check myself every day to become more and more of the person I someday hope to be.  What it did do is make me aware of where I can improve and how I can enrich the lives of others through the Scout Law.

                Do not see the Scout Law as something restrictive and difficult.  It is very freeing and exciting.  When you live right you have nothing to hide or to escape from.  It is like what Mark Twain said, "When you always tell the truth you do not have to remember anything." 

                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.   © 2019 John Patrick Hickey