Scouting Helps Families
Make Lifetime Memories
Our weather continues to be changeable here in the Midwest. Hot, sunny, rainy, stormy.
During the downpour last Sunday, my family got to talking about some of the weather they
experienced on campouts. Sometimes it was just impossible to stay dry. My sons have
experienced the humility of having their tents blown down on top of them, and have also
proudly had their tent the only one of the Troop's left standing after a storm.
James, our youngest, recalled one of
his early campouts when the entire Troop piled into the cab of the Scoutmaster's pick-up
and they headed for the safety of the ranger station as a Kansas tornado approached.
Mike, our oldest, spoke of an almost
identical experience in Indiana (heavy wind and rain but no tornado) except the
Scoutmaster didn't drive a pick-up. That time the drenched Troop piled into his Volkswagen
to head for shelter. (In both cases, there were more Leaders present but there was a
shortage of transportation at the time of the storm.)
They say they remember
best, the nights they spent with Scout Troop or family when all was quiet. They sat and
visited as the campfire slowly burned down, while no clouds blocked the twinkle of the
stars in Orion's belt, or Leo's mane, or Cassiopeia's chair. I especially remember a
family campout as we sat watching the embers and visiting when Mike said "Sure wish
life could always be this good. It just doesn't get any better than this!" I'm sure
many Scouters have heard or made similar comments on similar camping evenings.
Scout Parents
Have Camping Help
As Scout parents we have a unique
situation. We can go family camping (whether with just our own children or with the Troop)
and our children are able to help cook and pitch tents. It's not up to just Dad or Mom to
do the preparation and clean up. We don't have to struggle to interest them in the world
of nature as an alternative to the world of video games - Scouting's list of requirements
for their next badge has already done that.
Candle
Holds The Memories
My sons agree that a favorite memento
received at his Eagle Court of Honor, and the gift he most likes to give to a new Eagle,
is an Eagle candle. It is easy to make one. Find a white pillar candle. Cut the Eagle
Scout emblem from a napkin and glue it onto the side of the candle with melted wax. Brush
thinned glue onto the sides of the candle and shake on diamond dust to cover it.
Each candle came with a note that read
something like this: "When you are older, on your own, and times get difficult, light
this candle. Look into its flame. Smell the campfire. And, remember the good times. Then
use those memories to approach your problems as you approached your Scouting. Be prepared.
Do your best. Do a good turn for someone else. Work hard. Compete only with yourself.
Solve the problem. And remember to have fun."
Your family can share
good Scouting memories, too. You just have to participate together.
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If
you would like to share a Family Scouting memory
please contact MaryAnn.
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