1- When I started these blogs, I made an internal commitment to myself and to you the reader that this was not about me. I was writing to help and encourage youth-age Scouts and their Scout Leaders. But for the past couple of months, I have had a massive writer’s block. You know the stuff that gets in the way. The stuff/junk that goes on between my ears. Forgive me as I share some of my thoughts about me and Scouting.
2- At this point in my life I have served Scouts and Scouting in 3 different councils. I walked away from the first 2 thinking I was done. And both times I have left, the universe has nudged me back. However, the nudges were not-to-suttle. I am forever thankful for those nudges. As I have followed those nudges; I have met some of the most wonderful people on the planet serving in Scouting and Scouts themselves.
3- What I have learned over the decades of serving is that I am good at certain things. And I enjoy those things because I am giving myself away to others. I am a good planner. Wood Badge was so insightful, supportive, and reinforced my way of thinking!
Teaching, instructing, sharing is a blast for me! I absolutely enjoy having a class. Just a couple of weeks ago Mitch and I were standing out in a field and I was showing him some planets, constellations, and how to use them for nighttime navigation.
4- Parts of my personal philosophy:
- Be a student of my craft.
- Learn every day.
- Listen to many different viewpoints.
- Be a mentor.
- Be a mentee/a protege.
- Search out wisdom and the people who are wise. Then listen to them!
- Give knowledge to the willing.
- Be a Leader, and a Follower, and teach Leadership all at the same time.
- Be forever curious. Seeking knowledge.
- Give thanks for all of my teachers.
- To Coach all of my students.
- Create your own meaning by knowing the universe and yourself as you do.
5- What I wish to impart to each and everyone: Be forever curious. Keep searching for knowledge and answers. Search the universe for science-based information. Learn the difference between facts and opinion.
6- The goal is to make a positive difference in YOUR life! If you forget my name, but you remember and are empowered with what I taught you – Then I have succeeded.
7- Be a Scout. Be an Explorer. Be a Scientist. Always observing and listening.
Stay hungry for knowledge. And thirsty for understanding,
Gaither