The New Scoutmaster

The troop poses at Pegram Cemetary after placing flags for Memorial Day 2011
See more at Troop 275's webpage

You may recall the last post where the discussion was how busy I had allowed myself to get, and how tired I was. The Scoutmaster of my boy's Boy Scout Troop, of which I am the Advancement Chair, had decided to retire after several years as Scoutmaster. I was considering taking the position, and struggling with additional responsibilities when I already frequently felt stretched and stressed enough.

The following Sunday was Scout Sunday, and the pastor gave (as usual) a very fine sermon, telling stories about his brother the Eagle Scout, and keeping the young scouts entertained with campfire stories. He then went on to the meat of the sermon, which, in a nutshell, made the point that using your talents in something you're passionate about is a form of praising God and giving service to others.

It seemed he was speaking directly to me. So I decided to give it a go. I notified the troop that I would be their new Scoutmaster.

I'm eager to get going. I don't want to rush the current guy out; he's done a remarkable job for many years (15, I think). But that being said, I of course have my own ideas how I want things to go, and I find myself chomping at the bit. I have to remind myself that this is going to be a process. 

Scouting offers an opportunity for true service to others. What a chance to help shape and develop future leaders of our community. This gives them the chance to see and experience new things, new people, and new ideas, while reinforcing the constant virtues of responsibility and values, without them even knowing it. My job is to keep them interested and excited. I think I can do that. So keep me in your thoughts and prayers while I take this big step.