Scouts, our theme this month is called, "Moving on the Scouting Trail". What do we mean when we talk about the Scouting Trail. That's right, it's the path that leads from Scout rank through First Class up to the Eagle Scout badge. Very few guys make it all the way. The only ones that do are guys who can set a goal and then work hard to achieve it.
One way to get started toward the goal is to set yourself a more modest goal. If you're a Tenderfoot now, make up your mind that you're going to earn Second Class in time for our Court of Honor at the end of the month - or at least by the Court of Honor in February. The Chinese have a saying that is appropriate here. They say, "A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. "
That's a good thing to remember, not only in Scouting but in life, too. You can't progress if you never get started.
You're going to have plenty of chances to pass advancement requirements in our troop meetings this month - and every month.
Take advantage of those opportunities. We're also going to concentrate on advancement during our camp-out late this month. That's another chance to get moving on the Scouting trail.
It's my hope that by the time our February Court of Honor rolls around, every one of you will be a rank higher than you are today.