Scrapbook
Stephanie Everett (severett@AIC.NRL.NAVY.MIL)
Mon, 30 Jun 1997 10:45:27 -0400
Jon (and all the others who help make Scouts-L what it is) -
I have never introduced myself to the List, but I have been an "active
lurker" for almost 4 years now. In that time Scouts-L has given me
countless ideas, lots of encouragement and inspiration, and made me true
believer in the Scouting program. I think it's time I spoke up and said
thanks.
When I (reluctantly) took over my son's Bear Den in the middle of the year
(because the previous leader had changed jobs and no longer had the time) I
was scared and unsure, and knew *nothing* about Scouts. But the Cubmaster
convinced me that the boys deserved to have a Den, and I knew my son
enjoyed it, so I said yes. I immediately turned to the Internet to find
what I could, and thankfully stumbled onto Scouts-L. I was so glad to have
this amazing resource, and to see that I wasn't the only one searching for
ideas, struggling with ADD scouts and inactive parents, etc. Bolstered by
my new-found friends (though they didn't even know I existed) I squared my
shoulders, put on a big smile, and "did my best." And I had a ball! I
loved it!! This past April I bridged all seven of my Webelos into Boy
Scouts, and I have every reason to believe they will stay active.
But the most important thing that I have learned from Scouts-L goes far
beyond the skits, songs, crafts, and so forth. When I started with Cub
Scouts, I sort of thought of it as something that the kids just did for
fun, like a club (like I said, I knew nothing about Scouting!). Through
Scouts-L I have come to appreciate the depth and importance of the Scouting
program, and to realize that it is truly a world-wide brotherhood. The
members of Scouts-L obviously believe in the Scouting program, and have a
very strong commitment to the youth we serve. This faith and commitment,
more than anything else I have encountered in Scouting, is what has made me
a believer, too.
My heartfelt thanks to everyone here, and especially to Jon, whose
commitment to Scouts-L makes this all possible. In this day and age, it is
refreshing to turn to my daily Scouts-L digest and see that the Scout Oath
and Law are more than just words for so many people.
* * * * * *
Stephanie Everett everetts@annap.infi.net
Troop Committee Member, Troop 177, Gambrills, Maryland
Four Rivers District Outdoor Webelos Leader Training staff
former Den/Webelos Leader, Pack 269
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
