EVEN A PARROT

(adapted from "Woods Wisdom - Scoutmaster's Minutes")

A Scoutmaster once visited a new Scout's home. He was there to test the boy for his Scout badge. Now it happened that this Scout's family owned a parrot.

Well, one of the requirements for the Scout badge is knowing the Scout motto. The new Scout knew it, of course, and shouted it out: "Be Prepared!"

The next morning, the Scout's family was awakened by the parrot screeching, "Be prepared! Be prepared!"

And for the next few days, until the bird had forgotten it, that household resounded with the Scout motto.

Sometimes we might be like that parrot. If we're asked, "What's the Scout motto?", we're quick with the correct answer. It's easy to remember and say.

But do we ever stop to think what it means? Perhaps we would be better Scouts if we asked ourselves every day, "Am I prepared? Am I going forward in the knowledge and skills that make me a better Scout and a better man?"

Don't be a parrot. Whenever you say the Scout motto - or the Oath, Law, or slogan - think about what it really means. Then try to give it meaning in the way you live your life.

Last Revised 12/16/02

John D. McCarthy