The Scout Law is a code of conduct for life. I’ve listed the 12 points of the Scout Law before, but as a refresher, they are — A Scout is: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent. I will excuse you if you did not stand and raise the Scout sign as you recited the Scout Law. Extra credit if you did!

While the Scout Law covers a lot of territory, a Scout is many other things not covered by those 12 words. At Eagle Scout Boards of Review — the final step before a Scout becomes and Eagle Scout — we often ask the candidate, “If you could add a 13th point to the Scout Law, what would it be?” The answers are always thoughtful and often surprising, things like strong, honest, humble, and prepared. 

If you were to ask a Scout the same question in a more casual setting, you would likely get less serious answers. As we begin a new year filled with optimism and good humor, I would like to propose a few additions to the Scout Law.

A Scout is Hungry — A Scout can eat at any time of the day or night, even when the only thing to eat is cold cherry cobbler (directly from the Dutch oven it was bake in), a bag of marshmallows and a crushed box of chocolate Pop Tarts.

A Scout is Loud — A Scout remembers all the times their mother said to use their inside voice, and relishes every chance to be outside where the volume can be cranked all the way up.

A Scout is Stinky — A Scout takes at least one shower during a week of summer camp whether ordered to or not, and changes socks at least twice during the week. 

A Scout is Tired — A Scout stays up late on the first night of a weekend campout talking to friends around the campfire, playing cards and conjuring up an evening snack (see A Scout is Hungry). A Scout is then exhausted and in bed by 6 p.m. the second night.

A Scout is Disorganized — A Scout loses things on a regular basis, only to find them later under layers of sleeping bags, dirty socks, and other debris cluttering the tent floor. 

A Scout is Exhausting — A Scout has many times more energy than the average adult, making pots of strong coffee and afternoon naps essential for the well-being of all adult leaders.

I can think of others, like sweaty, forgetful, sneaky, weird, dirty, and always late. But hey, why mess with a good thing? The 12 points of the Scout Law have stood the test of time and are still a powerful framework for a life of strong character and personal growth.

Scout On!

Scott Fishel wears several hats in Scouting, including a longtime association with Troop 178 in Morton. You can contact him at [email protected]. Find a Scout unit in your community at beascout.org.