Reflecting from the arrow of light

One of my favorite jobs when I was a Cub Master was planning ceremonies. I
usually put more time and effort towards that task than any other part of a
pack meeting or campfire. No two ceremonies were alike and each was
designed to give special honor to the recipient. It's been over a year and
half since I was Cub Master and I forgot how much I enjoyed planning and
doing ceremonies.

Last night my Den of 16 Webelos had their Arrow of Light Ceremony and I got
to plan and present their award. I have done several Arrow of Light
ceremonies and I never sleep afterwards because of the high I get from
watching Scouts and their parents beam with pride of getting the highest
honor in Cub Scouting. I planned a different ceremony each year but they
all require me making arrows to present to the Scouts. Not until last night
did I understand the significance of those arrows. At first I was dreading
the task of making 16 arrows because each one takes about an hour and half
of my time. However, when I started, I couldn't get enough. I spent four
days cutting, painting and customizing each arrow to represent each boys
achievements in the Pack. I even found myself picking feathers that fit the
personality of the boy. I didn't realize it at the time but working on the
arrows gave me the opportunity to reflect with each Scout. It gave me the
chance to remember what makes him different from the other Scouts in the
Den. Each boy has his own personal characteristics that makes him special
and I can't imagine the Den without him. Each one gave little part of
himself to me and by spending time making his arrow, I can give a little of
me to him.

Our Pack has a tradition where after the Scouts receive their Arrow of
Light, we ask the parents sit down, then I stand behind each Scout with my
hands on his shoulder and brag a little about each one in front of the
Pack. The memories I brought up while making the arrows gives me a lot to
brag about during this time. This is usually the last Pack meeting for
these guys and I want each Scout to stand in his own light of Honor. This
also gives the proud parents their time to sit back to also enjoy in their
sons honor. Tears from the moms are not unusual.

Last night was my last Pack meeting as a Cub Scout leader in the "Mighty"
Pack 339 and the last arrows I make for Arrow of light Scouts. Not until
now did I realize that making those arrows gave me one more time to reflect
with each Scout and burn him in my heart. Now I understand why they call it
the Arrow of Light.

Barry Runnels

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