100 Days of Scouting: Day 1

Four and a half years ago I took my son to his first Cub Scout meeting. I told the Cubmaster that I wanted to help out where I could but based on my commute distance and a consulting business on the side I couldn’t give a specific commitment. Six months later I was announced as the new Cubmaster.

On February 27th I retired as Cubmaster of Pack 83. The night of our Blue & Gold I joked on Twitter that if the Scouts’ mothers are crying when you leave you must have done something right. All I know is I tried to do my best to provide a quality program to all the boys who showed up week after week. It was very nice to be recognized, but my efforts weren’t for the parents’, they were for the boys. Whenever we lose track of that in Scouting is when things often start to go awry. Was there more I think I could have done? Tons!

My son, having proudly earned his Arrow of Light, is moving up to Troop 83 and I have decided to follow him. I’ve since been “voluntold” by the existing Scoutmaster that my responsibilities will begin right away. In addition to training as his replacement, I will be putting together the Troop’s first website. I’m looking forward to having him as a mentor. He is certainly one of those Scoutmasters who will always be remembered by the boys he has served. “I remember when my Scoutmaster….” “My Scoutmaster taught me….” I’m sure each Scout he’s led has their own story to share.

So what is this “100 Days of Scouting”?

2010 marks the 100th anniversary of Scouting in the United States. Many Scout leaders have taken up the challenge of 100 Days of Scouting; posting their activities on Twitter and their own blogs. To quote one of my inspirations: “The purpose is to record the positive things I do for Scouting each day–big or small. It also makes sure I focus on accomplishing something each day for Scouting. Busy, tired, can’t think of something? Something must be done each day.”

My “100 Days” will be heavily focused (or so I think as I write this) on the experience of a leader transitioning from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts. I also plan to document my activities in getting the Troop’s website together, for as close to free as possible. I’m looking forward to bringing the Troop forward with a mutual appreciation for technology and those old school skill that never fail you when batteries do.

It’s often quoted that “Success is a journey, not a destination.” The same holds true for Scouting. There will always be more to learn, more to teach and God willing, more Scouts to inspire. What will you do for Scouting today?

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