This past Saturday marked the anniversary of an important event for me. Thirty-five years prior, I completed the requirements for the rank of Eagle Scout. The anniversary caused me to reflect on what it means to be an Eagle Scout. Looking back over the last 35 years, here are my thoughts:
Eagle Scouts share obligations of service and civic duty. Eagle Scouts know that others have taken precious time to mentor them and contribute to their training and advancement. Their service hours are earned while surrounded by others working towards the same goals. It is appropriate that these Eagles continue in life-long service, giving back to a society that has provided so much to them They are active in their communities, seeking to improve the lot of others. They serve as the model of good behavior, making ethical decisions and living principled lives.
Eagle Scouts know that they must Be Prepared. The world expects an Eagle Scout to be able to start a fire, perform first aid, use sharp objects, navigate, and tie knots, and people have little patience for excuses from an Eagle Scout if he or she does not know these things. Like it or not, this is the expectation of all Scouts, so I encourage all of you to master your Scout Skills.
An Eagle Scout must be ready to lead. Eagle Scouts are well equipped to step up and take charge. The myriad of positions they have held while members of a troop have prepared them to lead, with the apex of leadership repertoire in Scouting coming from their Eagle Projects. These experiences form the bedrock upon that which more life leadership experiences build.
An Eagle Scout is cheerful. Most Eagle Scouts are overwhelmingly optimistic. They see the best in others. Through their journeys to Eagle, they have discovered that they can find their way across arduous trails and eagerly seek to help others on their journeys.
To whom much is given, much is expected. Regardless of where your Scout journey ends, whether you are a Career Tenderfoot, Life for Life, or reach the rank of Eagle, I encourage you to stop and reflect on what it all means. My wish is that you receive all that Scouting has given to me, to include the association with fine people like you. Try to give more than you take and you will find that you are never without.
A Scout is.