Boy Scout's Field Guide

I proudly present the most recent addition to my personal library, a 1957 Boy Scout's of America Field Guide. Found at the Rocking Horse antique shop in Lincoln City, OR on August 1st 2009 upon a Cogan family holiday and annual reunion.

I'm proud of many traditions and institutions that our county has fostered. The Boy Scouts being one of them. I admire the courage, moral fortitude and reverence that has been passed down through their collective. I never had the opportunity to be a Boy Scout. But I do hope to learn by their example.

In reading, I've found a sentimental, and shall I say wholesome pride, increasing it's regard towards heritage, purpose and community. Concerning heritage: I think highly with reverence and love of God and my family,.. and my Grandpa. I also consider the weight and importance of our national heritage. I think of all the traditions and know-how treasured in them. I think of their faithfulness and hard work, and that they gave their lives to establish mine. To give an inheritance of good Christan character, integrity and principles. I'm so very thankful for them. And in all sincerity, my desire is to walk in the high calling of their honor, consideration and care.
Concerning purpose,community and current circumstances: I couldn't be more blessed. May sincerity and selfless consideration continue to prevail. May I fight to be readily equipped to bare the needs of my dear friends and collective counterparts, as I know they are for me. May We revel in the best of traditions, carefully weighing what we except, to build upon a most solid foundation, and through it all fulfilling the law of charity.

And, to help stoke a good and brilliant disposition in the heart of our community I offer the Scouts Oath and sentiment.

The Scout Oath

On my honor, I will do my best:
To do my duty to God and my country,
and to obey The Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

The Scout Law

1. A scout is trustworthy.
2. A scout is loyal.
3. A scout is helpful.
4. A scout is friendly.
5. A scout is courteous.
6. A scout is kind.
7. A scout is obedient.
8. A scout is cheerful.
9. A scout is thrifty.
10. A scout is brave.
11. A scout is clean.
12. A scout is reverent.

And after reading the chapter "Knots and Pioneering" I do hope to build a sturdy rope bridge upon our next camping adventure.

M.J.A.