2022-04 I Am A Corporal

The other day I came across this short story entitled “I am a Corporal.”

During the Revolutionary War, the soldiers were trying to raise a heavy timber which they could hardly lift from the ground.  A young corporal stood by, urging the men to lift hard, and shouting, “Now, boys, right up,” when a superior officer rode up, dismounted and lifted with the men. When the timber was in place the officer asked the corporal why he did not help “I am a corporal,” he replied. “I am George Washington,” replied the officer.

As a member of the patrol in your troop, the time may soon be yours when you are a Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, or Senior Patrol Leader.  One thing has been proven over the ages is that good leaders lead by example, not by force.   

Leading by example means you're guiding others through your behaviors and inspiring them to do the same as you. When you lead by example, you provide a path to direct others down so that everyone is working toward a common goal with the same purpose.

A leader makes it natural for people to feel like they want to do the best they can for the patrol. When you lead by example, you can accomplish this and have a troop that's full of trust, confidence and purpose.

Eventually, down the trail of life, the leadership skills you learned as a scout can be used when you decide to start a family and lead your children. You can also use your leadership skills in your career when you are an employee or a manager of employees. 

Whatever your leadership status is in life. Always remember to implement the Scout Oath and Scout Law. To help other people at all times and to be trustworthy, loyal, and helpful.