Thoughtful Thinking

Scouts and Scouters are known for being thoughtful. They think of others first and do things that are kind and meaningful—remembering a birthday or other special occasion with a card or gift and asking about family members who have been ill or visiting sick friends. These are all good things and bring us blessings as well as to those we bless. Earl Nightingale said, “Our rewards in life will always be in direct proportion to the amount of consideration we show toward others.”

There is more to thoughtfulness than just doing kind things for others. To be thoughtful, one must be willing to think. Yes, I said, ready to believe because the nasty truth is that too many people do not think. Albert Einstein said, “Small is the number of people who see with their eyes and think with their minds.” Scouts and Scouters understand that being thoughtful means, they must think about others, not just remember special days.

“The greatest compliment that was ever paid to me was when someone asked me

what I thought and attended to my answer.”

Henry David Thoreau

1817-1862

Author

Thinking takes energy and must be purposeful. This is why some many choose not to do it. Understand that there is a difference between remembering something (like a birthday or special event) and thinking about what you can do to bless another person. Ask yourself, “What do they need that I can help with?” “How can I help them move forward?” The answer may not be simple, but it will be thoughtful and useful.

Helen Keller said, “People do not like to think. If one thinks, one must reach conclusions. Conclusions are not always pleasant.” For a person to do something genuinely thoughtful may mean investing in a person a bit more than you first thought. It may mean sacrifice and give of your time and energy. That is a bit more than a beautiful card and birthday wishes. Philanthropist Arthur Astor Carey said, “We must say that nothing worth having can be had for nothing, and what we must give up in exchange for true courtesy is our own selfishness and preoccupation.”

Scouts learn that it is good to remember the little things in life for others. A simple smile and a few kind words can go a long way. However, they also know that to be genuinely thought they must think. Take the time to think and help others to do so as well.

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