It was an elaborate shindig, complete with a steady drumbeat throughout the whole ceremony. The Indian warriors told the creation story and how man came to be. And then now boys progress from young braves to warriors--like Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts.
Chief White Eagle told the story of his people and how they were also warriors and scouts. They had learned many things and were prepared...just like our boys; first as Bobcats, then Wolves, Bears, and then Webelos. A boy cannot earn the Arrow of Light award until he is a Webelos and met very specific requirements.
After each boy was recognized individually for their accomplishment, their parents and grandparents were called up to stand behind them. Their scarves were removed in preparation for the transition into Boy Scouts.
The scarves were ceremonially burned outside to show the progression of how to become a warrior/new Boy Scout. There's no going back to the leisures of childhood, once they've started on the path to "becoming a man".
As a sign of the maturation process, each boy was marked with the colors of the blackberry, sage, and blood roots--symbolizing how each boy assumes a new identity and greater responsibilities.
After the boys were told the story of how 21 Apaches boys became warriors, it was time for each boy to cross over the bridge and become like the Apaches and other dedicated Boy Scouts--willing to live the 12 core values of the scouting program.
The Indian warriors laid their hands on each boy's shoulders and looked them in the eye as they gave them council to be good citizens, sons, brothers, friends, and peers throughout their lives.
The presenters told the boys that they have been well prepared to become Boy Scouts and to live the Scout law. A Scout is: Trustworthy--Loyal--Helpful--Friendly--Courteous--Kind-Obedient--Cheerful--Thrifty--Brave--Clean--Reverent.
Braden is AWESOME for earning the Arrow of Light. He'll be getting a new tan boy scout shirt and that Arrow patch is the only award that is able to transfer from his cub scout uniform. It's an honor that not every cub scout earns and is thus recognized by the Boy Scouts as worthy of going on the Boy Scout uniform.
Braden doesn't turn 11 years old until August, so he still has time to earn some more pins and compass points from his Webelos book. It was amazing to participate and be recognized in today's program. The boys' are worth the effort and commitment to all the work.
We are truly leaving this ward with a bang! There are truly awesome people in this area who are dedicated to raising wonderful boys. It was a privilege to rub shoulders to with them and to have Braden finish his cub scout experiences here.
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