Being out in the Wild
@hemlockspruce25 (501)
Philippines
February 25, 2011 9:46pm CST
There's something about scouting or camping that really appeals to me.
It's hard. Sometimes when it rains it also rains inside our tent. Activities are really rigid. We often sleep for only four hours. But there's something about camping that makes me want to join and leave the luxury and convenience that my home can give.
It's the opportunity to be in commune with nature. This is a very rewarding experience.
When I was a child I wasn't permitted by my parents to join, perhaps that's the reason why I became dependent as I grew up.
To those who are already parents, would you allow your children to participate in events like this?
Who else likes to camp and why?
1 response
@ptower76 (1616)
• United States
26 Feb 11
Hi. I was a volunteer scoutmaster for 3 years 1982,83,and 84. Troop 639 Frontier District Bronx, New York. I was always interested in camping and scouting but my parents did not allow me to participate. So as an adult I volunteered to learn about camping. Camping can be a very rewarding and spiritual experience but not for everyone. Some people simply can not adapt to outdoor rugged conditions. Living for most of my life in a city of millions, i enjoyed camping for the solitude it offered. It was also a good environment to create learning opportunities for the children I led into the outdoors. One of the most spiritual experiences was our sunday religious service. Since The Boy Scouts of America forbids influencing children in any one religion, I would take the boys to a secluded spot and remind them that we should all dedicate some moments of silence to that higher power we believe in. We would observe 10 minutes of silence each boy reflecting on his personal relationship with nature. It was a way that all the boys from the different religions could worship together without religious conflict.
The boys gained many pleasant memories and stories they still share.
If one is prepared and the children are warm, dry, and comfortable in their first experience, they will usually enjoy and continue to go camping. If one is not prepared and the boys get cold, wet, and uncomfortable, they will stay home the next time. As a parent I would definately allow my children to enjoy the benefits of communing with nature.
@hemlockspruce25 (501)
• Philippines
26 Feb 11
Yes sir. In one of our scouting escapades we got really wet when heavy rains poured and the strong winds destroyed our tent. I felt pity for my boys. Yet those kinds of experiences especially the hard ones are those that change us from within.
@hemlockspruce25 (501)
• Philippines
26 Feb 11
Can I ask your opinion about my avatar for scouting?
It's my picture.. :)
