Self Evident Truth

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” A bold statement, one we continue to struggle to attain. The widest association we share is that of citizenship. The sub groups we form may be as exclusive or inclusive as the membership of the group chooses. Law and precedent has settled the question that Americans may form exclusive associations and societies that promote a particular way of thinking.

I have no argument with law and precedent. What I find troublesome is the idea that exclusion strengthens an organization, or defends its principles.

Scouting furthers its goals by being inclusive and weakens itself in being exclusive. Our principle goal is not defending ideals, it is living ideals.

Truth needs no defense, it simply needs to be.

Creating a society where conflicting ideals may pecefully coexist is the basis of our nation; a principle citizens must accept and exercise. A good citizen one must participate in the processes of governement, peacefully coexist with and actively serve their fellow citizens.