For those who try to tell you taht Scouts (and therefore Guides) is a “paramilitary organisation”
Every now and then someone gets on their high horse on some forum or other about how Lord Baden Powell was on some kind of army recruitment kick when he founded the Scouts and that by association, Guiding is also militaristic. It really hacks me off (not to mention creating a bizarre mental image of us defeating the enemy with a hoard of shrieking, giggling Rainbows….) If you are going to point the finger at any organisations for being formed for or by war then it’s the St John and Red Cross you should be vilifying but no one seems to…… anyway, from BP’s own writings…
Baden-Powell’s speech at the first Jamboree in August 1920
"Brother Scouts, I ask you to make a solemn choice. Differences exist between the peoples of the world in thought and sentiment, just as they do in language and physique. The war has taught us that if one nation tries to impose its particular will upon others, cruel reaction is bound to follow. The Jamboree has taught us that if we exercise mutual forbearance and give and take, then there is sympathy and harmony. If it be your will, let us go forth from here fully determined that we will develop among ourselves and our boys that comradeship, through the world-wide spirit of the Scout Brotherhood, so that we may help to develop peace and happiness in the world and goodwill among men. Brother Scouts, answer me. Will you join this endeavour?" And from every corner of the vast building there came back a great shout of ‘Yes’.
Some call to arms hey?
The book by E.K Wade called “27 years with baden powell” - blandford press london (no isbn sorry, its pre such things) suggests that he never wanted it to be a religious organisation. Sadly the way many groups ended up being affeliated to churches (especially c of e) hasnt helped this. And church parades celebrating baden powells birthday dosnt help the matter!
Comment by vicki — September 23, 2008 @ 7:36 pm