A Scout is Courteous

One of the points of the scout law is a scout is courteous. The definition of courteous is polite, respectful, considerate in manner. An older definition is marked by polished manners, gallantry, or ceremonial usage of a court. To be courteous can then also be being gallant. The definition for gallant is showing courage : very brave. So in society whether you are courteous or not is measured by the amount of courage or bravery and manners you show to others. but what about us as scouts? The Scout Law states:

A SCOUT IS COURTEOUS: That is, he is polite to all—but especially to women and children and old people and invalids, cripples, etc. And he must not take any reward for being helpful or courteous. So as Scouts we should do our best without expecting or taking a reward. We should do our best to help others at all times. John Wayne once said when asked what he thinks a scout is courteous means: Allow each person his human dignity which means a lot more than saying, "yes ma'am" and "thank you sir". It reflects an attitude that later in life you wish you had honored more... earlier in life. Save yourself that problem. Do it now. So we should give everyone their dignity we should never purposely or consciously take a persons dignity. We should act in a way that we would want others to see us because anything we do or say reflects on our character. I have gone through what society and scouting expects of us but, now I want to go through what is expected of us as Christians. True Christian courtesy is genuine. It is instinctive and spontaneous—the fragrance of the heart. It has been said that courtesy is like an air cushion—there is nothing in it, but it eases the jolts of life wonderfully. As true Christians when we are courteous it should be genuine. If we are not genuine there is no reason to be courteous. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 14:40 "Be Courteous and considerate in everything." So you now know what society, scouting, and Christ expect of you when you are courteous. I am going to close this blog with a quote from His Holiness Blessed Pope John Paul II who said "I assure you of my own personal appreciation of Scouting as a magnificent experience and form of social and religious commitment." When we are truly courteous we will have a spotless character and a flawless reputation. Just some food for thought.

-David N. Tarantino