Throughout the years, I’ve often given some thought to the many missed opportunities and paths I haven’t walked down as a result of being diagnosed with Type-1 Diabetes at the age of four. With that one fateful event, many doors suddenly closed and certain things that I might have contemplated were no longer available to me. Although often disappointing, it also thought me to develop an instinct that I would use to work hard for certain things simply by virtue of the fact that they told me I couldn’t have it.
It wouldn’t be until years later, when I had reached adulthood, that I would ultimately realize that some things that had been refused me were the result of others’ laziness or fear as opposed to the fact I genuinely couldn’t or shouldn’t do it. One of those things were the Beaver Scouts. I ironically joined the Beaver Scouts when I was four years old, back in my town in New Brunswick. Although I was young enough that I didn’t really understand the implications of what I was doing beyond needing to wear a stupid hat with a beaver tail, it was something nut father believed would be invaluable as I got older.
The Scouts are a fantastic way to learn some basic, rudimentary outdoor and socialization skills that can be easily carried into adulthood. When I got my diagnosis, it was decided that the Scout leaders had neither the knowledge nor the training to have me in their group, in the event I found myself in medical distress. Although I understand that perspective, neither did my parents, if I’m being totally honest. But the result was that I was unceremoniously punted from the group. It set a poor standard for the remainder of my childhood, which is why I had to do most of the activities I loved in my youth without my parents’ knowledge or consent. Not something I would encourage in others but here we are.
Little did I anticipate that almost four decades later, I would get to experience that lost opportunity through the eyes of my son. Nathan is a bit of a withdrawn individual; often preferring to sit quietly in his room or the basement, playing on electronic devices rather than spending time outdoors or doing something active. He has no issue socializing with other kids but getting him to willingly do something structured and active has always been a challenge. That’s why when my wife indicated she had signed him up for Scouts, I was surprised that he was not only willing to go; he seemed to be enjoying it.
Last week, I attended a ceremony where Nathan was officially given his investiture into the Scouts. It was a nice thing to watch and I was proud of how attentive he was to the instructions he was getting. He appears t have a few kids in his respective “lair” that he gets along with quite well, and even spent his first weekend away from home at a camp out event with his Scouts group. He hand-crafted some crafts, started a fire and slept two night with his group. It can sometimes be a bit hard to get Nathan to open up and share his thoughts or experiences but he was able to mention that he enjoyed himself and would be willing to do it again.
He still needs to get a uniform shirt, since they didn’t have one in his size that night. But he got some attention and took his oath, got his scarf and some patches that he earned during his weekend. Now, we just need to get him a blanket to start sewing those on. That’ll be fun, since he doesn’t know how to sew. Neither do I. Considering I nearly severed my thumb recently, I’m probably no safer with a sewing needle. But I digress…
Scouts can be a great way for young people to learn the basics of life; not only in the great outdoors but in general. Part of the “tasks” he needs to accomplish include aquatic abilities, helping out neighbours, doing chores around the house and doing good things for others. It’s the foundation on which a well-rounded young individual can base their life and get a bit of discipline while still having fun. As Joe Clark used to say, discipline is not the enemy of enthusiasm. Here’s hoping he sticks with it. In the meantime, I get to live out my missed experiences vicariously through my son. ☯️
The Blogging Buddhist 