[RR] training

[cdr . jen]

Sheely etal, I just got back from my 2 day camp for adult leaders in Scouting. This might be something you would consider. (men and women are welcome). This is what we did:   Friday we set camp and got settled in our patrols. I was with the Killer Bees, (and being the only female, I got to wear a set of antennas and was crowned the Queen Bee). Our motto was : FOR THE GOOD OF THE HIVE. Friday night at the council fire we had a guest speaker (who was an attorney who represented abused and neglected children) come to speak. He explained what SAFE HAVEN was. "save haven" is the place where boys can go learn about camping, socially interact with other boys, and scout skills without ever having to worry about being belittled, chided, or ever feeling like a failure. Also he told us how to identify abused children and who to report suspected abuse to. Next he told us that as adults going through this training, we would not be embarrassed, belittled or made to feel we could fail. If during the training we felt afraid, intimidated or that something was too difficult, the trainers and patrol would work together to make sure EVERYONE  passed the tests. The goal was for everyone to pass.   Saturday we awoke at 6:00a, frost on the ground, and fixed breakfast. Our patrol failed to earn a "bead" for our flag because we prayed individually before eating instead of as a patrol. We were supposed to appoint a chaplain for prayer. Next we learned knot tying, tool craft, fire craft, nature craft, orienteering, map and compass, first aid, yells and skits, no-trace camping the importance of being reverent and acknowledging God in all things and Duane (A#1) taught the purpose of campfire.  Saturday night we had skits and yells and I was appointed SONG MASTER. They gave me a sheet of music which had several old gospel tunes including secular songs. They said I could lead in any song I wanted. So we sang IN MY FATHERS HOUSE, AMAZING GRACE and MAY THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN. We closed in prayer and went round robin and had a REFLECTION time. Each person said what they learned or experienced. I shared that I learned how 6 strangers can work as a team and that with God's help not only can we do our best but even surpass ourselves.   BSA adult training is free. Check with your local chapter in the phone book. Cdr Jen         Sunday was pack up