Inspiration

Someone handed out flyers to the second graders of my school, inviting them and their parents to a meeting of Scouts that evening at the school. My dad was with the Air Force in Libya, and my mom didn’t drive. But she found us a ride . It was raining hard as it often does in Miami, FL, so we got very wet as we walked to the portable classroom where the meeting was held. I got about three steps into the crowed room when I noticed a young man in his Boy Scout uniform across the room. I was first drawn to his uniform and the merit badge sash. But, as I watched him I became more impressed with how adults treated him. They sought his advice, and listened to him. They trusted him with responsibility.

I left the meeting that night thinking I wanted to be like him. I never knew the name of that young man. I don’t think I ever saw him again. He would probably be surprised to learn that I am writing about him today, but he set me on a course that has lasted 62 years.

Being an Air Force brat, we moved on average every two years. That was a tough reality for many kids. For me, I learned very early that three things you could carry with you as a portable identity would ease the transition to a new place by creating ready acceptance. First, academics. If your grades are good your parents and teachers are happy. Second, athletics. If you’re good at sports people want you on their team. Third, Scouts. Whatever you’ve achieved in Scouts is immediately recognized, and you can continue without any loss.

So, that young man not only started me on a life of Scouting, he also inspired me to a tool that made a transient childhood thriveable.

Submitted by: Brendan J Doran of Palestine, TX