Dads Who Make a Difference
As we finish up “All About Dads” this month, I’d like to make a shout out to all the dads who make a difference in the lives of their children. And to the dads who step up to the plate to mentor other kids, especially through Boy Scouts of America. Thank you!
Recently, my husband and I spent a few days at Boy Scout camp, setting up for the weeklong summer camp experience. Parents typically open the camp, clean, stock the kitchen, prepare the beachfront and ranges as well as set up for various merit badge sessions. We’ve been blessed to be part of this troop for a number of years, both boys taking an active role in scouting. Scott and I believe strongly in volunteering in the activities in which our kids participate. As a result, we’ve taken on a variety of tasks from organizing high adventure trips to instructing merit badge lessons. We’ve worked with a lot of the young men in this group. But so have all the other volunteers.
The troop is eclectic…athletes, scholars, outdoorsmen, musicians. The parents are from all walks of life too. What draws us together is the common good of the boys: mentoring, training, instructing, preparing.
What struck me as we worked was the parents who had chosen to take the week off from work, donating their time and talents to these boys. A number of the men in particular have grown sons who are no longer in the troop, yet they continue to serve. Each realizes the gift of mentoring youth, providing strong male role models, and teaching life skills. As I looked around at the dads eating lunch and laughing together, I was truly filled with gratitude as each one of these men had mentored my own boys in one way or another. And the lessons go far beyond first aid, orienteering or emergency preparedness. These men have set the bar high in respect and responsibility. They embody the Scout Oath and Scout Law. To each one I say, “Thank you.” Thank you for pouring into the lives of my sons and many other boys. Thank you for holding each one accountable. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and knowledge. Thank you for being a role model and mentor. May God bless you abundantly as you’ve selflessly served and guided these young men.
Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
Proverbs 1:8a
© 2013 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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