Scouting Together: Forging Deep Connections and Lasting Friendships
Scouting is a journey that wouldn’t be possible without fellow Scouts. In fact, you can craft some of the closest friendships of your life through Scouting - I know I did. And while the troop and patrol method offer plenty of opportunities to forge friendships, it is ever so important to take the initiative to do so.
There are just so many ways to make friends in Scouting.
One of the most important ways, and often overlooked, is to simply participate in troop activities. Campouts, meetings, and events are perfect for growing closer to your troop buddies. Make sure to always participate and make your presence known in a positive light. Trust me: It will automatically forge connections. Shared experiences play an important part, even the bad ones! Even some of the more miserable trips can be great to laugh together over.
In addition, it is always important to be thoughtful and to connect with others. Just simply approaching a Scout who is having difficulty with their pack during a hike or offering to help with dishes at a campout can shed a positive light. It truly shows that you care and are a positive influence within the troop. A little bit of thoughtfulness can go a long way. Striving to connect, you will be a great friend to look up to.
Lastly, remember that your friends in Scouting don’t have to just be your age! Older scouts are fellow scouts as well. One of the best ways to connect with older Scouts can be helping with Eagle Scout projects. Not only does it foster troop spirit, but it can be a great morale booster for the aspiring Eagle Scout. You could even learn a thing or two! Older Scouts can help you advance in your Scouting career, share life advice, or even introduce you to more people in the troop!
The friendships made in Scouting are a special kind of bond. It can bring a new, more fun-filled light to Scouting.
Also, there are several benefits. Being an active and kind Scout in the troop can go a long way. For example, the positivity you spread can be especially apparent in an SPL campaign, which can garner favor in the troop. In addition, these are the same fellow Scouts that will help with your Eagle Scout project. The support that you show at other Eagle projects will be returned to you as well.
Scouting offers a unique opportunity to form lasting friendships. Whether through troop activities, thoughtful gestures, or just a simple conversation, these bonds can strengthen your troop and make Scouting better than it already is.
Submitted by Eagle Scout Nav Nalajala in Troop 130
