fred johnson

The most critical aspect of scouting is character. How we present ourselves is critical to the development of our scouts. That's why we wear uniforms. Say the pledge. Our image is important.

An image on this forum doesn't really matter beyond being cute or baiting an argument. Have what you want. Be self-indulgent thinking you know more than others too. Fine.

As for the "other topics", there is no homosexual agenda being introduced into scouting. That's why I don't rail against it. BSA blew it 16 years ago with BSA v. Dale. BSA chose a hard line confrontational position that was different than the evolving direction in the country and also different than the values of many of their charter organizations. IMHO, BSA has it right now. BSA provides the program and the charter orgs select the leaders reflecting the values of their charter org.

As for me and mine, I am Catholic and love my faith and the teachings of my church. I want my sons to learn from leaders reflecting similar beliefs. My sons leaders don't have to be Catholic, but their example should not contradict my faith. But that's my choice. I am comfortable finding a scouting unit that has leaders reflecting the beliefs of my family.

Word play. The cultural tradition is a devil like figure. He's often called the Christmas devil. Most write-ups end up using the word devil within the first few sentences.

This site is not directly in front of the youth. So no harm. If you offend or want to pick a fight, fine. We're all grown ups.

It's when it's in front of the kids. It would be interesting to see what your charter org would say if you choose to use that in front of the kids.

It's only an issue for me because we are faith friendly and my sons are involved because it is a good environment for them where they can see people of faith outside of church. If their leader choose a devil like representation, I'd have an issue.

I know the reference. It's a matter of appropriateness though. Scouting is a faith friendly program and your symbol is that of a devil like figure. If you were in my unit which is chartered by a church, I'd have to have you find a different representation or ask you to find another unit.

It's not that your image is wrong. It's a matter of the right time and place.