The Scoutmaster's Minute

from David Ivancic, Scoutmaster

Building Character

The mission statement of the Boy Scouts of America is as follows:

... to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

Take a moment to reflect on the Oath and Law. Say them out loud to yourself when you are alone. What do they mean to you? Are they truly a part of your daily life?

The mission statement, together with the Aims and Methods of Scouting, are what Boy Scouting is all about. The Three Aims of Scouting are building character, developing active citizenship, and developing mental and physical fitness. I believe the most important is Building Character.

Have the self-confidence to make your own decisions and not let someone else make them for you. Remember, doing what is right is not always popular, and doing what is popular is not always right.