Boy Scouts Influenced My Life

For a large part of my life, I have been a part of an association of young men who strive to achieve more than the standards in life. These young men learn an abundance of skills and traits that set them apart from society. This group is known as Boy Scouts has been a massive influence for me and has developed me into the person I have become today. Going from when I was young and was learning how to build a fire, tie knots, or teaching me leadership skills, Scouting has refined me into a more confident and stronger person. It started in fifth grade when I joined Cub Scouts, I got involved with many campouts and learned many things. In less than a year, I earned my Arrow of Light, the highest rank a Cub Scout can earn. This is something that most boys earn in a matter of 2 years …show more content…
This really set the standard for me when I advanced to Boy Scouts. There were more campouts, more skills to learn and more opportunities to try new things. I can vaguely remember when I began six years ago on my first campout. We had gone rock climbing and rappelling at Enchanted Rock State Park. This was something I had never done before and really tested my ongoing fear of heights. This was my first real taste of Scouting. Overcoming challenges, facing your fears, trying new things. This is what Scouting is about. From there I wanted to go on every campout there was until I could experience more and see all I could. Mountain Biking, Canoeing, Gun shooting, I've wanted to try it all. By the time I reached age 14 there was a challenge I dreamed of doing since I first heard of it a few years back. Philmont. 12 days of backpacking in the Northeastern part of New Mexico. This was huge step forward for me. I had carried over 50 pounds on my back while hiking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains every day for the 12 days I was there. Over 80 miles and almost two weeks later we finished the trek. This journey not only pushed me physically but mentally