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Home My WebLink AboutThe Citizen, 2005-02-24, Page 21THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2005. PAGE 21. A Seouter’s thoughts By Terry Wilder I remember the first time I was asked by my church to consider becoming a Scout leader. I’m afraid I was reluctant to commit. I questioned my ability to teach youth about surviving in the wild as this was what I imagined would be the main skill I’d need. I was convinced I knew nothing about preparing for a camping weekend; I didn’t know how to start a fire with only one match; I didn’t know how to explain the various types of trees and plants and birds. Did I really think I could show leadership qualities and also keep a group of youth continuously motivated and maintain their enthusiasm for even a night, let alone a whole weekend? I soon discovered that the answer to these questions and doubts was: yes, I could do it. I had the help of other dedicated Scout leaders who followed the “Scouting way”. They shared their years of knowledge and experience with me. I "soon discovered it was not important to these leaders that I could not light a lantern or start a Coleman stove; they just appreciated the fact that I was willing to take the time out of my busy life to volunteer my time with the group. I haven’t decided which has meant more to me: that I have learned and grown from being a volunteer with Scouting, or that I have made a lasting impression on all the Cubs. Either way, I’ve benefited from the experiences. I remember Scouting when I was young, and I have incredible memories of camping and going on rambles, and I’m thrilled to be able to share and relive those times with my group. I’d have to say that campfire is my favourite time. There is something magical at this time; a feeling of camaraderie as we all sit around the fire telling stories, laughing at silly skits and singing funny songs. As the fire slowly bums down, there is a stillness that settles over the group. Some stare deep into the fire searching for answers while others watch sparks from the flame shoot learning to lead high into the air. As the sparks float up and begin to fade, they look above and beyond at the stars that drift through the clear night sky. I believe that they see the beauty and glory of nature and realize they are part of something so much bigger than themselves. No matter how crazy life can get, I always find the time to observe and admire the small things in life, Can the butterfly flap its wings and affect wind currents on the other side of the world? Will the circle ever stop expanding when you cast the stone into the water? Looking back now, I am so g’ d 1 picked up that volunteer request form from the church and made the choice to get involved with Scouting. It seems like, with everything else in life, sometimes you’re just afraid of taking a chance, or you think you just can’t do it. But as long as you believe in yourself, and share that part of you with others, anything is possible. I will get cold at camp. I’ll get frustrated on a Tuesday night. But I will never, ever grow tired of watching a child's excitement from learning something new. Nor will I cease to be amazed and awed by the sparks from the fading fire as they slowly rise up and become stars. - Terry Wilder is a Cub leader in Etobicoke, Ontario. To learn more about becoming a Scouts Canada leader, please call 1- 888-Scouts-Now or visit www.scouts.ca Business Directory Frank Workmart Electric AMcKILL0P\ MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY 91 Main St., South, Seaforth Office 527-0400 1-800-463-9204 FARM, HOME, COMMERCIAL AUTO COVERAGES --------------AGENTS- Graeme Craig Bob McNaughton Donald Taylor Banter & Mac Ewan & Feagan Insurance Ltd. Gaiser Kneale Insurance Brokers Inc. Thames Insurance Brokers, Exeter Cockwell Insurance Brokers \G.L. 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