Stephen Bangs Troop 161
Scouting has meant a lot to me during these past few years and has shaped me into the person I have become. I first joined Scouts as a Tiger Cub in pack 146 not really sure on what to expect. I had no idea that I would be introduced to a program that has changed my life as well as many others'. At first I wasn't really sure if I really enjoyed the program or not. I didn't know any of the kids and there were a lot of adults that I didn't know as well. As I became more involved I started making friends such as Max Feiler and Brandon Embrey, who I have been close to, to this day. Once I became a Webelo I began to consider if the program was right for me. Sure, I had made some close friends, but we had learned some pretty pointless stuff, such as Pine Wood Derby. I luckily was convinced to stay in the program by my neighbors the Freys. Both Brian and Josh were in Scouting, and to tell you the truth I really looked up to them. Probably part of the reason I looked up to them so much, even though I probably didn't realize it at the time was because they embodied all characteristics of the Scout Oath into their everyday lives. They really were trustworthy, loyal, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. They told me that I should come to a meeting at their troop, 161, and of course I agreed, I thought it would be the coolest thing in the world to go with them to a meeting. When I first set my eyes on the troop it was really love at first sight. The environment was fantastic. All ages were brought together for a single purpose, and really enjoyed each other's friendship, and the unique skills that each person brought to the bunch. A troop really is a motley crew. The program was also youth run with assistance from adults of course, and I viewed it as a chance to really learn how to become a successful leader. Even though I wasn't totally enthralled with the program that night which was marshmallow and toothpick building night (I'm still not a big fan of this activity), I was excited by the fact that I could meet new people, and try new things I have never done before. After this experience, I signed up for the troop at the first opportunity I could get. I even managed to pull some of my friends in like Max and Brandon over to the troop. When I first joined I was a little scared. I thought would I like any of the kids, would they be nice? What I found out however is that the older scouts as well as some of the younger scouts greet you with open arms and welcome you into their community. I slowly began climbing through the ranks of Scouting, and began to take role as a leader. What I gained most out of my time as a Patrol leader and Troop Quartermaster is that not every person works well with one leadership style. I learned how to bargain, divide tasks, order, and sometimes even yell at misbehaving scouts. It also showed me that what adults and leaders do is a lot harder than I thought it was. It has made me realize that having your full attention and trust in someone is worthwhile because if I was in their shoes I wouldn't want to have a disruptive group. This was put to the test many times at Camp Lyle especially, and I learned how to deal with it at an early age. Scouting has given me the tools to live outdoors as well. From the many Merit Badges offered, to the life-changing experiences such as camping, and sleeping a night out in the wilderness with nothing but the clothes on your back really builds character. It helps you appreciate what you have. I first learned this coming back from Camp Lyle and it showed me really what a blessed life I have. What going to Philmont means to me is the opportunity to have an adventure of a lifetime. I am willing to give this trip my all in both preparation and while it is going on. I will become more physically fit which will help me abide by the rules of Scouting physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. I will also get to experience this fine trip with some of my closest scouting friends, which probably give us an opportunity to become closer as friends. Another great thing about going to Philmont is that I will be able to see how some other troops run because we are going with other troops. I may become more grateful for the fantastic troop I have. I have been hoping to go to Philmont since I have started Scouting, and have heard nothing but good things about the experience. Scouting has given me a goal to work towards and to strive for. It has given me opportunities that I never in my dreams been able to experience without its help. I had never been camping before in my life before the Boy Scouts, and it really opened my eyes to the outdoors, and the beautiful world we live in. Another way in which Scouting has really helped me grow as an individual is that I gained was a support system when my parents were getting divorced. My Scouting friends were always there for me, and I could always talk with them. Actually, I would trust these friends with personal information before anyone else, even my whole family. When I look back on my life when I'm older and think about what I have accomplished I will definitely think of Scouting, not only as a great accomplishment, but as a learning experience that changed my life.
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