Reaching Peaks and Crossing Bridges

Being Cubmaster has its perks. There's the travel to exotic places, sweet clothing, and did I mention the fabulous pay? What's not to LOVE?

All kidding aside, being a Scout leader gives me a chance to try and positively influence the growth of Cub Scouts. Whether it's helping them with flag etiquette, reinforcing good manners, or teaching about citizenship, it all comes down to the boys.

I haven't looked back at other March entries to see if I'm repeating myself....but, then again, this stuff bares repeating.

Think back about your son when he first entered Cub Scouts. Maybe he was a Tiger Cub, with orange neckerchief and hat, and a very blue, very stiff, uniform shirt. There was probably twice as much shirt as boy! Each year he grew another inch (or two) taller, and grew a little closer to leaving boyhood and entering youth. I've spoken before about Pack Graduation, one of my favorite ceremonies. He steadily grows all year, then, POOF! Put a new neckerchief around his neck and he's suddenly another inch taller!

My other favorite ceremony is Bridging. The Cub Scout formerly becomes a Boy Scout. He's spent the past year as a Webelos 2, scratching his way through the Boy Scout Oath and Law, earning rank, Compass Points, and Activity Pins. Then, if he's worked hard enough...the Arrow of Light, Cub Scouting's highest recognition for achievement. The Eagle Scout of Cub Scouts.

Last year my oldest son bridged into our troop (after earning the Arrow of Light). Another parent snapped a picture of him in mid-stride. He's seen the picture, and tells me he was trying not to trip. I know he was really just getting an inch taller.

A boy's journey to youth, then adult, can follow many different roads. Sure, I'm a big supporter of the program we call Scouting. But I know it's not for every boy. That's OK, as long as he finds SOMETHING to guide him. For us, it's Scouting. And being able to be even a small part of what helps build that young man has few equals.

To Darden, John, Matthew, and Bryan....I've been honored to watch you grow from Tigers, bumping into your own shadows, to Boy Scouts. I'm very proud of the work you've done, and, while a bit saddened to have to turn you over to another Scout leader, I'm exhilarated that you've made the journey, reaching the peak of Arrow of Light and bridging into the Troop. Continue your hike toward your future, and don't forget who you are and what you've achieved!