Be Prepared

The Boy Scouts of America have a motto that drives their philosophy on scouting. This motto is simple but very profound for the survivalist: “Be Prepared.” This famous motto was established by the founder of the Boy Scouts Robert Baden-Powell. He would often shorten his sir-name to BP in direct reference to the scout motto. He gave this definition of the motto. The Scout Motto is: BE PREPARED which means you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your DUTY.

• Be Prepared in Mind by having disciplined yourself to be obedient to every order, and also by having thought out beforehand any accident or situation that might occur, so that you know the right thing to do at the right moment, and are willing to do it.
• Be Prepared in Body by making yourself strong and active and able to do the right thing at the right moment, and do it.

These powerful words are not only for the Boy Scouts but for ANYONE who seeks to be ready for any situation that arises in their lives. Specifically, when in the outdoors this motto can prove to be a life saver. Having the essential equipment at your disposal or exercising those skills you have learned relating to the outdoors can be the difference in coming home or not. In the mountains of North Carolina almost every year visitors who fail to    prepare themselves for the elements can get themselves into a dangerous situation. Many times these tourists will take a simple hike with the barest of essentials and place themselves in jeopardy. Many set out for a summit or    waterfall without proper clothing, or provisions. Some of them get lost or they are too far from the car when the weather suddenly changes. In the NC Mountains in the spring the temperature can drop 20+ degrees in just a few hours. Without proper clothing many of these visitor’s risk hypothermia. The park rangers have plenty of stories about unprepared tourist that need assistance or even rescue. Dressing properly and carrying a few provisions can mean the difference between an awesome day seeing God’s creation on a mountain top or crying out to God for help because you forget your flashlight and coat. Take a lesson from the Boy Scouts and always BE PREPARED.

NOTE: Many of us who love the outdoors tend to pride ourselves on being able to take care of ourselves in any situation. We are seemingly always prepared for the inevitable. Yet, there are many people who are unprepared for their own death. They make no provisions or preparations for their inevitable demise. Everybody dies. We should make sure we have a last will and testament, a living will, a medical power of attorney, and other paper work in           order. You should also consider writing out your funeral service. Make it evangelistic and point people to Christ. These preparations will bless your family and will speak for you when you’re gone. Leave a legacy and be prepared.

Serving the King Together

Eric