Behind The Badge

My son, Hunter, received the highest honor this year in scouting…his Eagle Scout Award. It has been a blessing watching him grow as a scout. I had the privilege of reading a poem I wrote for him at his court of honor. I thought I’d share it here too.

Behind the Badge

By Kellee Wood

Behind the badge was a boy that I used to cuddle and hold. I would whisper lullabies in his ear. I knew to treasure that time for he would be growing up soon. His sweetness and innocence were a joy to my heart. I loved watching him grow into a curious fireball of energy, doing everything his daddy did. He used to think with his tongue sticking out. I am well pleased.

Behind the badge was a young cub scout. Always learning and growing. These years were full of audacious adventures. He grew in wisdom studying how to become a scout. He learned many skills such as how to tie knots, how-to put-up tents, how to use a knife, how to build a fire, and all of this was preparing him for boy scouts. In the end, he earned the highest achievement, his arrow of light. I am well pleased.

Behind the badge was a boy scout. He and his father climbed to the highest heights, swam the deepest and fastest waters, lived in the woods, built stunning fires, cooked interesting foods, and battled extreme temperatures. He learned that serving others was a gift he could give from the heart and was more priceless than money could buy. His skills in leadership took flight and he learned that he had to lead himself before he could lead others. He endured some hard challenges and made lifetime memories. His scouting journey has made him who he is today. I am well pleased.

Behind the badge is now an Eagle Scout. I can honestly say he has all the attributes of a scout. He is trustworthy; I would trust him with my life. He has learned to do whatever is right. He is loyal to his family, community and country. He is helpful to all he meets. He is friendly, courteous & kind but has strength to weather any storm. He is obedient even when it has been hard because he has learned the importance of God’s calling to trust and obey. He is always cheerful, and he brings the fun and laughter to our family yet he feels deeply for those who are hurting. He is thrifty and does not follow the road of comfort and ease. He is the bravest young man I know, yet humble in heart. In addition, this man is clean, and he is graciously reverent. I am well pleased!

Behind the badge is now a man. The scout oath has become his creed. He does his best to do his duty to God, duty to others and duty to self. He continually does a good turn daily. His heart is clear and his goals are great. It has been a joy to watch him grow and I am thankful that I was a part of this journey. I am so very proud that I can say …. This is my son, with whom I am well pleased.

Hunter, don’t ever forget “that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” ~ Isaiah 40:31

I love you!