It is this promise of adventure ... of camping and of life in the outdoors that lures the boy into Scouting.
We must keep faith with him by giving him that adventure ... not just to satisfy him but because it is the best way we have of holding his interest. And ... only as we hold his interest can we influence his development.
But if we give a boy a good, old-fashioned, rugged brand of Scouting ... if we teach him to take care of himself ... if once a month we take him to a not-too-distant spot with a pack on his back ... have him sleep on the ground and cook his meals ... he will have adventure.
Here, with his Patrol and Troop he will establish a temporary settlement. He will meet the problems of shelter and food and learn to get along with his fellows. Every new experience will bring new problems to be solved.
As he grows in ability, his experiences can become longer and more difficult and thus more adventurous. Opportunities to live outdoors in rain and snow should be sought. In this way he may learn additional skills which come only from living with, and mastering difficulties.
When he can light a fire and keep warm with wet wood, pitch his tent, and make his bed in a rainstorm ... then he will have had adventures and through them learned a lot about self reliance.
Remember Webster’s definition ... “a bold undertaking ... a remarkable occurrence ... a striking event ... a stirring incident.”
They are all there. You can find them as you work and plan your Troop program.
If you do, you will help boys to know themselves. You will develop in them a feeling of responsibility toward others. You will go far toward enriching the life of a boy through his Scouting experience.
This can be your “bold undertaking” ... your “striking event” ... your “stirring incident.” This can be your adventure in Scouting!