FYI . . . This post maybe long because of what I am writing about. This is basically a journal entry about being a scoutmaster. Scattered Thoughts
During the month of July of 2006 I was asked to be the Scoutmaster for Troop 423. I was excited as much as I was optimistic about the experiences I would have over the course of this 4 1/2 year journey. Today I was released as the Scoutmaster. This is a day that for the majority of my time I never hoped for but knew one day it would come. This journey is one that has changed my life forever and one I hope to enjoy again in the future. The day I accepted the responsibility I never new I would grow to care for these young men as much as I do. There were a lot of days and night spent laughing, prodding, encouraging, promoting, strengthening and preparing and everyone of those moments was worth it in my mind. People often praised me for what I did and I received several honors over the last few years. I never felt like I was doing anything special I was just giving it everything I knew how to give. It is funny how you always learn more from those you serve then what you give them. The moment I was called I made a commitment to my self the I would offer these boys the best scouting program I knew how to provide. Even though the program evolved over the 4 and 1/2 years. I can honestly say I have very few regrets. I know I have had boys upset at me and proably some parents but I knew that my first responsibility was to be a Leader and Second to be there friend. I know for a fact the happy, joyous moments far out way the times my pacience was tested. I have spent 60 + nights sitting around a fire on a cold evening then getting in the tent hoping to get some rest. I can't say that I ever got much sleep but I can say I wouldn't give back anyone of those nights if I could. I also spent add'l 15 night getting trained on how to deliver even more opportunities for the boys to grow into leaders. For Tami and I the sacrifice my family made far out weighs the blessing and joy we received. I never could of done this with out Tami, she never once complained about the time I was spending. No one truly understands what a scoutmasters wife goes through unless you see it first hand. There were many of night where we would sit up and I would tell her what was on my heart and how I wanted so badly to affect these young men for the good or wondered how I could help a boy that struggles. I have had some great experiences and seen so many places I never would have if it wouldn't of been for the troop. One of the things I enjoyed the most was the 50 miler. If you would of told me 4 years ago we would take 13 boys on a trip of a life time in the white clouds I wouldn't have thought it was possible. I am not really sure what I am going to do with myself other then spend more time playing with my kids and being with my wife. Who knows maybe I will take her on a date that doesn't consist of stopping at REI or Sportsman's Warehouse. However, with all that said I am sure the lord has other things in store.
Being scoutmaster has truly been a part of me. My kids don't even know any different then dad goes to scouts every week and he goes camping once a month. I was talking to a friend of mine and she says that often it becomes self defining. I would have to say that is probably the case for me. I don't really even remember what it is like to not be the scoutmaster.
A couple of the boys jokingly said they almost started crying. Some of them said why can't you be the scoutmaster forever. As good as that sounds there comes a time when you have to step aside and let someone else take the reigns. All I know I will do my best to jump back on the wagon in hopes of enjoying some more of the ride.
I met many adult scouters that have also affected my life. People not of my faith who truly showed me what it is to love my savior. People who gave so much of themselves to better the future of the people they served. One of the things that had greatest impact on me are the men and women in the battle right along my side. Just like my boys know I would do anything for them, if these mentors needed something I would be there.
Bitter
Not having an excuse to go camping once a month
Not having an excuse to buy more gear
Not being the one directly responsible to help shape young men into men
Not being there to watch them grow physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually
Not seeing them realize they are capable of what ever they set their mind to
Sweet
Time with my kids and family
Camping and hiking with the family
More bike rides and family outings
Watching these young men prepare to go on mission
Time to run and hike
I just hope and pray that in some way I affected those around me as I served. This definitely isn't the end of the book. It is however time to start a new chapter.
