That Was The Year That Was

[Eamonn]

Looking back at the old year.

I suppose when the time comes to look back at 2005 the thing that will be remembered most is the weather.

Mother Nature let us know for all our cleverness, she can test us and remind us that we are not as smart as we think we are.

Hurricanes not only proved how unprepared we really are, but also proved how when push comes to shove we can band together and help others.

I haven't talked with anyone who attended the National Jamboree that has expressed an interest in buying a sauna. Just like everyone else I mourn the passing of our fellow Scout's who died in the tragic accident. However when I seen Scouts filling box after box with patches to be send to the Scouts from the Troop that had gone home, I was so very proud of "Our Kids".

I visited a Cub Scout pack and a little Tiger Cub went to great lengths to explain to me why he was sending baby wipes to the troops serving in Iraq. The Pack was busy collecting and sending care packages to the Troops. This little Lad didn't know or care what the war was about or how it started, he only knew that one of his soldiers was having a hard time because of the sand and that he was doing something to help.

Sadly the year wasn't scandal free. I don't remember hearing about any little blue dresses, but we had the membership thing in Atlanta and Mr. Smith in Texas. Add them to the prices that National were charging for things at the Jamboree Trading posts and I know that I started to question the character of our leaders. Still even with this I never once lost faith in how great Scouting really is. How wonderful it is that we have thousands of people who volunteer countless hours to work with the kids in their communities. I never lost faith in "Our Kids". They never let me down, they really know how to make the best of things and rise above any obstacle that is placed in their way and make me smile as they do it.

Happy New Year to all

Eamonn.

[scoutldr]

Just remember next time that Jambo merchandise will be 75% off on Scoutstuff.org afterwards. I bought a whole box full of Christmas presents for less than 50 bucks, including two jackets. That illustrates how much markup there really was.(This message has been edited by scoutldr)