Let me take you back to a time when camping gear aisles seemed like a foreign land to a certain father and his son. This story begins in the year 2004, when I was working at a sporting goods store. I usually manned the customer service counter, dealing with all sorts of inquiries. One day, a father and his 11-year-old son walked in and asked for directions to the camping equipment section. Little did I know, this encounter would have a profound impact on both of us.
As an Eagle Scout myself, I have always felt a deep sense of responsibility to help and inspire young scouts. When I saw the excitement in that young boy’s eyes, I knew I had to personally assist them. I asked my boss for permission, and she graciously agreed, knowing my passion for scouting.
It quickly became apparent that the father was completely out of his element when it came to camping gear. He seemed unfamiliar with everything on the shelves. Luckily, his son’s troop had provided them with a detailed list of required equipment. So, for the next 20 minutes, I patiently went through each item on the list, explaining its purpose and suggesting affordable options. We even shared a laugh when I revealed that “Kybo Tape” was scout lingo for toilet paper.
During our conversation, I had the opportunity to talk to the young scout. He had recently joined the scouting program and was eager to experience all the wonders of the great outdoors. As I shared my own scouting adventures, his eyes widened in awe. Climbing mountains, attending National Jamboree, exploring military bases, and rafting down rivers were just a few of the incredible experiences I recounted. I reassured him that this was just the beginning and there was so much more in store for him.
After carefully selecting a small tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and other essential items, we proceeded to the checkout counter. The total came to a little over $200, which visibly shocked the father. I could see the worry in his eyes as he reluctantly reached for his wallet. In that moment, I quoted the Scout Law, “A scout is helpful and kind,” and decided to knock 20% off the total. The gratitude on both their faces was priceless. They left the store with a spring in their step and smiles that could light up a room. My boss, while appreciative of my act of kindness, jokingly warned me not to make it a habit.
Little did she know, that was just the beginning of a long-lasting connection. A week later, the young scout and his dad returned to the store, this time with a photo album in hand. The young boy wanted to share his camping trip pictures with me, someone he considered instrumental in his journey. As we flipped through the photos, memories flooded back. I recognized the campground and the trails, and we reminisced about fishing, encountering deer, and even the drafty chow hall. A few of his best pictures were proudly displayed on our store’s “brag board.”
In a private moment, the father expressed his gratitude for a different reason. Going through a difficult divorce, he cherished the opportunities scouting provided for him to spend quality time with his son. This camping trip had brought them closer together, healing wounds and fostering a stronger bond. His words touched my heart, and I assured him that this was just the essence of scouting—helping others and making a positive impact.
Over the next year, they became regular customers, constantly in need of camping supplies. The young scout thrived in scouting, earning merit badges and the coveted Mile Swim badge at his first summer camp. I even began volunteering as a merit badge counselor for his troop, sharing in their scouting journey.
However, as life often does, it got busy and pulled me in different directions. School and new job opportunities made it difficult for me to dedicate time to his troop. Our paths diverged, and I, unfortunately, forgot about the impact this young scout and his dad had on me.
But fate has a funny way of bringing people back into your life. In late 2010, out of the blue, I received a phone call. The voice on the other end, deeper and more confident, asked for me by name. It was that young scout, now a young man, inviting me to his Eagle Court of Honor. The flood of memories, emotions, and pride was overwhelming. Of course, I accepted the invitation, assuring him that I would even try to squeeze back into my old scout uniform.
And so I attended his Eagle Court of Honor, seeing the transformation before my eyes. The once young and shy scout stood tall and proud as his Eagle Medal was pinned to his shirt. He recited the Eagle Charge with conviction and gave a heartfelt speech, acknowledging those who had made a significant impact on his scouting journey. Looking directly at me, he singled me out and expressed his sincerest gratitude for being the first adult to believe in him. Tears welled up in my eyes.
After the ceremony, I found his dad. Scouting had not only shaped the young scout but had also transformed his dad. He had overcome bitterness and resentment toward his ex-wife, recognizing that it didn’t align with the values of a scout leader. Their divorce had become more amicable, and they had successfully renegotiated custody. He was a happier man and overflowed with pride for his son. The young man, now destined for great things, was planning to study psychology with a minor in criminal justice. He wanted to become a police officer and exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in his career. In that moment, my heart swelled with joy.
To this day, I am in touch with him. He is on the cusp of his 21st birthday, preparing applications for various police departments. I have already assured him that I would gladly serve as a reference because he embodies the qualities we all look for in a police officer—duty, honor, integrity, generosity, and kindness of spirit. He will undoubtedly be an exceptional officer, and I am proud to have played a small part in his journey by simply helping him choose a tent all those years ago.
