Think Like You Are on a Mountaintop

Welcome to the many new Scouts who have joined our Troop.  It was a delight for the Scoutmaster Staff to work with you when you joined us for your first campout and hike at Shenandoah National Park.  Our 7-mile hike took us across a stretch of the historic Appalachian Trail and up Hawksbill Mountain, the highest peak in the Park.

Women and men have been hiking to the top of tall mountains through all of human history.  When a person reaches a summit there is a sudden realization that one can see things very far away and very clearly. 

There is a realization of calmness and beauty in the quiet wonder of the moment.  The cares and concerns about our school tests, temporary disputes with friends or yearnings for material things seem to vanish while we are there.  There is a presence of protection and confidence as we stand on what seems like the top of the world.  There is almost a feeling of regret during the easy hike back down.

I think that we should try our best to capture and replay those calm moments of beauty and confidence when we reach the bottom of the mountain and return to the obligations of our daily lives.  There is no reason why we should not approach our time with family, friends and even those who do not treat us nicely with the confidence and clarity we experienced at the top of Hawksbill Mountain. 

We lead wonderful lives and are surrounded by people who love and care for us at every moment.  We need to clearly see that.  We also need to draw close to people who treat ourselves and others appropriately — and not obsess about trying to force our way into relationships with those who do not appreciate us the way they should. 

The presence and power of the mountaintop is something you can recall and use in your daily life.  Next time you are challenged by something difficult, just remember how you felt up on top.  Then take a deep breath and you will be able to figure out the right thing to do.

I am really looking forward to Scout Sunday on October 13, when at 9:30 AM our Scouts will have breakfast and demonstrate their skills and activities to members of All Souls Episcopal Church.  Afterward, many Scouts with families and friends will participate in a special church service at 11 AM, during which they will act as ushers, readers, and singers.  You are invited to do any of these things with your Scout friends. 

All Souls is the organization that supports the Troop all year long by providing volunteers, funding and a place to meet.  On Scout Sunday many of its members will help us pay for our camping equipment.  So, participating in Scout Sunday is a very effective way to say thank-you to these people who love and support us.  Please consider signing up to participate!

Sincerely,

Scoutmaster Burkhardt