WOOD BADGE WE6-49-11

Weekend #1 of our Wood Badge Course is now complete.
And, it was a success from everything I saw, heard,
and was told.  And, I wanted to post right away.  But,
it took me a little extra time to take it all in and
find the words to express how really wonderful this
experience has all been for all.

Let's start from the beginning.  All 46 participants
were at the entrance before the check-in time.  No
one was late!  That was our first clue.  And, the
convoy of participant vehicles arriving at the old
commissary was both exciting and scary at the same time.
"It's really starting now!", the Staffers thought.

The participants seemed to really enjoy all the components
of their Course experience from their brief time as Cub
Scouts to Troop Meetings, Patrol Meetings, Gilwell Assemblies,
and all.  I was initially impressed by their enthusiasm,
then by their quick grasp of the events, and most of all
later impressed by their strength of character.

Looking at the Staffers, I kept wondering "How are all
these things going so smoothly, even better than how
we practiced?"  Maybe like how a chunk of coal turns
into a diamond by pressure, our Staff performed like
the stars they always were when it really counted!

As for me?  Well, I'm might be the luckiest one of all.
You see, I get to observe, take pictures/videos/notes,
and view the activities like a Historian trying to
capture the proper perspective.  And, all evidence shows
that this is a very special Course indeed, one that was
destined to make positive changes and excitement.  And,
ultimately, one that was destined to leave a legacy.

We still have this two-and-a-half week break of real
activity, followed by weekend #2, then by the 18 months
of participant ticket work and beadings.  So, there's
much more work and fun left on the table.

But, weekend #1 has already made its mark and changed
us for the better.  We met new friends.  We formed patrols
and bonds that we'll always be connected with.  And, I
think each one of us surprised ourselves with how well
we performed in our own ways.

So, on that note, I'll continue to support Staff and
Participants during this break.  And, I'll look forward
to seeing everyone again soon back on the hill for weekend #2.

- happily your Course Scribe, Mike