This morning, I awoke in a warm bed. My cell phone provided the alarm, and feed me the day's news from the Internet. I flipped a switch and assured electricity provided light. I turned on the faucet and received potable water for a shower, shave and the morning's coffee.
I am free and have rights guaranteed by my Nation's Constitution. My local government provides a police force, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, teachers and infrastructure. I do not have to pay bribes during the course of my day to do the things necessary to take care of my family and myself. My ability to achieve is only limited by my energy, my personal strengths and my aspirations.
What I have (and you have) is not universal in our world. I thank God that I was born in the United States and I thank God for the opportunities that have presented to me.
President John F. Kennedy, who was incidentally the first US President to have been a Boy Scout, paraphrased John Winthrop saying, "we must always consider that we shall be as a city upon a hill -- the eyes of all people are upon us." To that end, we must be thankful for what we have. We must be steadfast in our efforts to protect our rights and our way of life, as well as ensuring that we seek to improve not only the lives of our citizens but that of humankind across the globe. Be thankful and give God praise for your many blessings. Be kind -- extend charity to the extent of your capabilities. Remember that charity is not only monetary and we seek to give of ourselves in good deeds aimed to lessen the burden of others and to improve our community, Nation and world.
A Scout is Reverent.