Windsor Pack 155

How many Eagle Scouts do you know? Chances are, you may know one or two. Sometimes you are surprised that you may know someone who became an Eagle Scout. Once they tell you, then it’s usually not at all a surprise, because this person has the qualities of a scout, and you know that there’s always been something special and exceptional about that person.

Sometimes boys stop showing up for Den and Pack Meetings. People tell me, “let’s face it, many boys find other activities like sports, cars, and girls.” I’ve said that, too. But I find those reasons to always to be somewhat of a crutch, because that Eagle Scout you know probably made time for all four, maybe not in the same order. ; )

No Eagle Scout ever regretted sticking with it. Not many people who learned to play an instrument as a kid regretted being an adult with that skill. Becoming an Eagle Scout isn’t easy, but I hope every boy in our Pack wants to become an Eagle Scout.

It begins with scouting. It begins with your parents, your grandparents, other adults in your lives that help you year after year.

It begins with coming to meetings week in and week out, and doing the work. A lot of work. It seems like a grind when there are other things like karate, soccer, lacrosse, or music lessons during the week.

It begins with becoming a Tiger, then a Wolf, then a Bear. Then Webelos I, Webelos II and then a major milestone: crossing over with the Arrow of Light Ceremony. I will never forget my Arrow of Light ceremony.

And then, the real challenge begins. Because as a Boy Scout you are in charge, not your parents or Troop Leaders. “Boy Scouts are boy run.”

You certainly don’t need to be an Eagle Scout to become exceptional. But becoming an Eagle Scout is exceptional, because not everyone achieves it.

No matter what you decide to do, getting what you want doesn’t happen overnight. It doesn’t happen in a year, or with one advancement ceremony.

Boys, I encourage you to stay in scouting for the skills you will learn, the great friends you will make, the inspiring people you will meet, and for the man your parents hope you will be.

Thank You.

— Tony Veroeven, Pack 155 Cubmaster