Snipe Patrol

I took D to a scout meeting tonight. It was the meeting when they organize themselves for the coming year. He and a handful of other young boys were put together in the "Snipe" patrol! They decided their patrol yell would be "Gotcha!" and they are working on a patrol flag. I suggested an empty net.

On the way home, I explained to him how snipes were not real, but rather a common joke played on new boy scouts. I was pleased to see that he found this funny, even though he and the other new guys were the butt of the joke. In fact, he is embracing it and learning to laugh at himself. I am impressed.

I find myself very involved with him and his scout activities. One of the reasons is I believe in the organization and want to see him grow in it. One of the reasons is it's a great excuse to spend time with (or near) him. And when I'm feeling introspective, I can't help but wonder if one of the reasons is to re-live, vicariously, a time of my life I would like to do over.

The fifth through seventh grade years were pretty hard for me, as they are for most people. When I look back on them I cringe. I would write more but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth...