I found this old photo at church of a boy receiving a bronze medal for Royal Rangers.
It got me thinking about where we are today in this post modern world, where perseverance, hard work, and sacrifice seems to have taken a back seat to instant downloads and virtual worlds.
It takes years of work to receive a bronze medal in Royal Rangers. It is the first step to the Gold Medal of Achievement, which is the highest recognition one can receive in Rangers. The Gold Medal of Achievement is equivalent to Eagle Scout in discipline and experience, plus the Word of God.
It is not easy.
There are no shortcuts.
The only way to achieve it is to do it.
I am sure the parents of this young man were proud of him. They probably spent many nights convincing him that all the work was worth it. They had to watch as others tried to pull their son away into an easier path that leads to nowhere. They cried with him, prayed for him, encouraged him all the while letting him know that no matter what they loved him. I bet they watched in amazement at the man that was growing up before their eyes.
I wonder what he went on to do with his life? Whatever it was, I am certain he was successful in it.
I imagine back then he stood alone many times with his peers. He probably got ridiculed for his uniform, or laughed at behind his back, but he held fast to a higher calling. He was probably labeled old fashioned or square or lame. Adults may have even added to the chorus of negative words and looks as they realized their own lack of discipline. Through it all, this young man had the strength to stand and here he is in front of those that scoffed in a place of honor.
Not everyone is a leader, and the leader always takes the shots. All leaders are called, but true leaders respond to that call. Leaders keep their eye on the ball and look ahead to the prize. Those that follow have it easier because they follow a leader who has broken ground, blazed a trail, taken point.
Being a leader is difficult work, but leaders never back down in the face of difficulties.
They simply overcome.
Good job my son, we are proud of you! Congratulations on your Bronze Medal #B274-2008.
Press on to the goal!