A Scout's Response to the Coronavirus
This is what I recently sent out to the over 8,000 Scouts in the Pacific Skyline Council of Northern California.
Dealing with the Coronavirus is a big challenge for our country, our state, our community and our families. With schools and so many other places temporarily closed down, you might feel confused, upset or even scared. But although we will have to stop most Scouting activities for a while, we never stop being Scouts. I hope this message will help you think about some things that you can do to help yourself and others around you.
Be Prepared – this is our motto, the idea that guides everything we do. During this time of public emergency, you can do your part to help make sure that you and your family have the supplies that you need in case someone gets sick and has to stay at home.
A Scout is Helpful – with schools and churches closing and lots of our parents working at home, it might be fun at first but it’s also hard to stay in one place and not participate in group activities that we’re used to. Make sure that you clean up after yourself. Play some games with family members. Offer to do extra chores. Your family will be grateful, and you’ll feel better that you’re helping out.
A Scout is Kind – when things around us change all of a sudden, it’s hard for some people to adjust. You may like the extra time you have to play or hang out by yourself, but others may feel sad or angry. Try to understand their feelings and let them know you care. That will help everyone know they’re not alone, but part of a family that loves them.
A Scout is Obedient – during an emergency we all need to pay attention to what government officials tell us about how to stay safe. And because our families are dealing with a lot of change, it’s more important than ever that we support our parents by doing what they ask us.
A Scout is Cheerful – when things are not normal, it’s natural that people will feel stress. It helps everyone when you show how, no matter what, you’re happy to be with your family. Find ways to laugh. Playing games reminds all of us how much fun we can have together.
A Scout is Brave – remember that we Scouts can always face danger even when we’re afraid. By doing everything you can to understand what’s going on and also doing what you can to help, it will be a lot easier for you to deal with all the changes going on around you.
A Scout is Clean – keeping this virus from spreading means that we all have to be especially careful, washing our hands, avoiding close contact when outside the house, taking off our shoes in the house, getting exercise and keeping ourselves healthy.
Do a Good Turn Daily – this is our slogan, a reminder that Scouts live a life of service to others. Look for ways you might help. But whatever you do, be sure to be safe.
Yours in Scouting,
Jim Pooley, Pacific Skyline Council President