From: Bill Sheehan, Jr. (w.sheehan.jr@POSTOFFICE.WORLDNET.ATT.NET)
Date: Thu Jan 20 2000 - 13:36:42 CST
A few thoughts:
> This certainly sounds like a "strong" response and will make the adults feel like they have "tackled the problem", but in reality all it will accomplish is to force a few boys to quit scouting where you might have the opportunity to help them.
> end quote
Anybody who works trauma want to comment on the problems we have in this
country with youths and alcohol? With the number of youth killed on our
highways today, with the number of youth who binge drink on our campuses
today, (I could go on...) The response needs to be strong and loud. I
would hate to see them go, but to admit you did wrong and may need help
is crucial. (12 steps)
> The last part, "an admission to the ... troop of his drinking" could well land you an accusation of harrassment.
> end quote
Phrased as an apology for causing shame on the unit at a camporee is
hardly harassment. There are about a million things that could be
harassment, this isn't one of them. Aren't all people who "plead out"
required to admit their crime in court?
> In scouting, we are not in the "punishing" business! We are in the "teaching" business and this is a great opportunity to help some boys grow into better young men (and no, punishment does not help people improve, contrary to what we might like to believe). Use it to help the boys learn about their mistakes, and to help teach the dangers of teen drinking to the younger (uninvolved) boys. Get graphic if you have to (remember the old driver's training films about accidents from drunk driving?), but please use this opportunity to HELP boys, not punish them. They deserve that, even if they did make some major mistakes.
> end quote
We are in agreement on the purpose, but not requesting an admission of
the mistake is wrong, too. We need to understand that life has some
harsh realities. The last place team doesn't deserve a trophy and if you
do the crime, you have to do the time. To teach a boy anything else is
wrong. This is far to serious a lesson to miss making a strong point on.
