Compass Points

For a while now, Scouting has been the focus of a great deal of attention. Changes within the BSA with regard to the orientation of our unique society have come under scrutiny, not just from within; but from both news and social media. So an examination of these changes is essential toward understanding.

Why now you may ask, after the dust has settled a bit and the decision has been reached? Recently, a local church in my area withdrew their support and sponsorship of a Troop, citing "changes in membership policy". Ignoring it won't make it better, so let's talk a little about who and what Scouts are.

Scouts are young men, teens and young boys finding themselves in the world around them. They are intelligent, caring and community-minded individuals who are learning to interact in an ever changing society. They are our future and, in a way, our past.

So, how has the decision to allow openly homosexual scouts changed the stage? What does it (the decision) bring to the forefront of our society and what should we as Scouts and parents do in response to the effect of these changes?

First, are the ideals and moral values of Scouting negatively impacted by the inclusion of these young men? It is difficult to see this as a negative. If, as I would hope all do, these young men take the Scout Oath as a conscious commitment to the values ascribed their sexual orientation should have little impact upon Scouting as a whole and should have a great deal of guidance on each individually.

Second, what about the impact on heterosexual scouts? There should be little if any. Again, if we are adhering to the Scout Oath, are conducting our service to the community and our faith in a serious and reverent manner, Scouting should continue on as it always has.

I admit, during my life-time, I have been polarized by the question of "alternate lifestyle" people and communities. I have harbored prejudice and bigotry toward anyone not like me in that regard. As I have grown older, however; I have begun to understand that they are like me. They want to live, laugh, grow and learn to be a better person. They seek to enrich their lives in much the same way I seek to enrich mine.

The can, and often are, spiritual and religious people who are simply trying to understand their place in this world and in the realm of their Creator. They attend services, go to school, work, live and die in the same community we do. They deserve to serve. Scouting is as much a necessity for them as it is for any boy or young man. It allows that sense of completeness.

There are many who would argue that it is religiously oppositional to allow homosexual scouts. I disagree. Depending on your specific faith, almost all faiths acknowledge the need for growth and for fault. Perfection is not something one could obtain regardless of your definition of it; so how can we allow the sin or deficiency in our own life and not allow it in another. Let each of us agree to treat each other as brothers and allow the Creator to deal with us as He sees fit.

If you read this, and you have or hear of churches, clubs or schools pulling their support of Scout Troops in your area, address the problem rationally, compassionately and kindly. Remind them, we are all students in this life and each of us must find their own way in their own time.

Happy Scouting!