Merry Christmas Bobwhite Patrol!

Boy it's a busy time of the year isn't it? I apologize I have not gotten around to sending out my December message yet and even greater apology for missing the last patrol meeting. I promise I am not avoiding you and was really bummed I wasn't able to make it.

I have heard from all of you and it sounds like the tickets are progressing wonderfully!  Keep it up. Audrey continues to stretch herself and the growth has been astounding! I LOVE to get little video clips of you stepping out of your comfort zone. If you have any doubt that a Wood Badge course can change a person's life, Audrey alone is a shining example.

I am sure the rest of you are all experiencing similar changes. I know I am still benefiting from the relationships I forged working on my ticket. One in particular is the Burmese refugee boys and their leadership.

During this time of year the rest of the world catches a glimpse of what we are trying to teach boys everyday. Lord Baden Powell established the program to change boys. These quotes help us to better understand his mission.

"We must change boys from a 'what can I get' to a 'what can I give' attitude."
"The code of the knight is still the code of the gentleman today."
"The real way to gain happiness is to give it to others."
"In Scouting, you are combating the brooding of selfishness."

Is it any wonder why the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints adopted this program over a century ago? Are we doing all we can to help our young men "combat the brooding of selfishness"?

During this wonderful season of the year when we reflect on the selfless gift of the Father in the birth of His only begotten Son, I hope and pray that we can have our hearts changed and His law written in its fleshy tables. If we can change a boy to look outward before looking inward we have accomplished something great. I think even greater than winning a battle or climbing the highest peak in the world. For a boy to change his nature is for a son of God to realize his true potential and we not only help the boy, we help God.

May the Lord bless you this Christmas season. May the gift you give of changing boys have an everlasting effect on those you teach, instruct, serve, and love.

YIS
Tom Brand
The Regal Eagle