Have you ever heard the term “The ideals” in relation to scouting. This somewhat confusing term is used to encompass the Scout oath and Scout law in a single term. The ideals are guiding principals that direct our actions not only in scouting, but in our everyday lives.
As a Scout, your life should be shaped by the ideals of scouting. The Scout oath outlines three duties: Duty to God & country, duty to others and duty to self. It is no mistake that they are put in this order. A duty to God while sometimes hidden from others is the foundation of your character. It is an important part of who you are. A duty to others should always come before a duty to yourself; but do not neglect yourself. Remember to keep yourself
physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.
Similar to the oath, the Scout law identifies the key character traits of a Boy Scout. The Scout law does not offer the option to pick and choose the attributes that are most attractive to you. A Scout does not choose to be either clean or reverent; he is both. A Scout is both trustworthy and loyal. The same is true for every point of the Scout law.
Everything we do in scouting is guided by the aims and methods of scouting. The ideals give us guiding principles and practical “how tos” for all activities. The ideals are important enough that we recite them at every meeting, at every court of honor, at every scoutmaster conference, and at every board of review.
Live your life according to the ideals. Make them a part of your everyday life. Not just Scout activities, but let others see that you are different because you live by the Scouting ideals. When you are ready to become an Eagle Scout, myself, other Scout leaders, your parents, teachers, other adults and even you will all be asked if you live up to the ideals in your everyday life. Give us all every opportunity to say “absolutely”.
BSA Troop 204 