Re: Parent Involvement/Camping Involvement
Amick Robert (amick@SPOT.COLORADO.EDU)
Wed, 2 Oct 1996 17:11:48 -0600
RE: "Exploring is NOT Scouting", part II (Jim Miller, Jr.)
As I mentioned in the previous post, it is probably more a question of
semantics; from your current post, if I may interpret your meaning, you
are clarifying your statement to
reflect that Exploring is not "traditional Boy Scouting." No question,
nor was it intended to be; but your initial post stated "Exploring is NOT
Scouting" which if taken literally became the point the point of
disagreement.
And, I still would have to respectfully disagree if you are suggesting
that only traditional Boy Scouting or programs which are quite similar,
(or whose adult leadership has been previously involved in "traditional
Boy Scouting") is truly "Scouting" for the reasons that I have already
presented.
We all know that there are Packs, Troops, Posts, Teams, et al, which are
of high quality; have trained leaders, deliver good programs, turn out
lots of advancement, etc.; and conversely, there are those which do not;
so the youth are not provided with the opportunities of the more active
units. This is not the fault of the program per se, but rather a failure
of those responsible to ensure that the units have the tools and training
they need to deliver a quality program.
The key point of all this really, is that if you compare a top notch Boy
Scout Troop and a high quality Explorer Post, I submit that each
will have youth who exemplify similar ethics, standards,
leadership abilities, dedication, commitment, service, and other desirable
attributes. Whether these are gained through ranks/Eagle Award/ merit
badges and camping, Junior Leader Training, National Scout Jamborees,
etc.; or:
through Explorer law enforcement leadership training, Explorer Advanced
Leadership Development WOrkshops, Explorer Officer's Association, National
Explorer Leadership Conferences, Explorer Gold Award, etc., the end
"results" will compare favorably!
Again, Scouting is composed of venues and programs which are "tools" to
accomplish the larger vision and mission statements of Scouting worldwide.
So whether it's Cubs, Boy Scouts, Venture, Varsity, Exploring, Rovers,
Girl Guides, Girl Scouts, or whatever; if the program accomplishes and
embraces the values and mission of Scouting; and more importantly if the
programs turn out citizens with strong leadership, strong
moral and ethical values, self-reliance, and all the other attributes as
envisioned by the Founder, then it IS Scouting.
Whether the youth are exposed to and embrace
this through traditional Boy Scouting, Exploring in a Career Specialty, or
any number of other venues, it is difficult to argue that one program is
superior and "the only true way..." I think we all know that there are
some Eagle Scouts who really don't exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in
their daily lives, despite the vast majority who do; this can be said of
current or prior members who are "products" of
any of the programs; but for the most part regardless of which program it
is, the majority of the "ultimate
products" of these programs turn out to be the ideals that we all hope
they will.
Most will never be Eagles; few will ever be considered
"superstars" or even be considered "notable." But if they quietly live
their lives in the principles of Scouting, whether it's the Explorer Code,
the Scout Oath and Law, the Cub Scout Promise, whatever, they are still a
"success" in the eyes of Scouting worldwide....and I really think this is
what it's all about...
Best wishes..
Bob Amick, Explorer Advisor, High Adventure Explorer Post 72, Boulder, CO
and Exploring Training Chair, Longs Peak Council
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
