Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Boy Scout Values

Our son recently turned 11 and is now officially a BOY SCOUT! I have a few slight issues with Scouting and its deep-rooted connection with the LDS Church, but I really liked parts of their "Information for Parents" on the application form:

1. "The unit leader must be a good role model because our children's values and lives will be influenced by that leader."  You can say that again. You can't say the kids won't be influenced by the types of leaders the kids have.  They will know.  They will be influenced and I know what and what I don't want my kid influenced by.

2.  "BSA adult registration is restricted to qualified people who subscribe to the precepts of the Declaration of Religious Principle. . ."  So what is the Declaration of Religious Principle?

"The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God and, therefore, recognizes the religious element in the training of the member, but it is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training.  Its policy is that the home and organization or group with which the member is connected shall give definite attention to religious life.  Only persons willing to subscribe to these precepts of the Declaration of Religious Principle. . . shall be entitled to . . . membership."  Loved it.  It reminds me of the Masons, how anyone of any faith can join, but it is to foster brotherhood.  Was Robert Baden-Powell a Mason?

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