[Philmont] Ranger 2008

Matt - Congratulations on starting one of the great summers of your life.

To me, probably the most important skill a Ranger should have is the
ability to quickly integrate himself (or herself) with the Crew. If the
Crew senses that you are genuinely interested in them, individually and
as a whole, and that you're also interested in their trek, they will
follow your direction like you were the Pied Piper. Sharpen up those
people-skills.

Second is camping competency - and the more, the better. Being Mr.
Popularity is great, but it will only carry you a short mile if you
don't know your stuff, and know it well. And not just the Philmont way,
but all ways. Recognize the differences between rules and
recommendations. Respect the skills of each Crew, both Scouts and
Advisors, and turn each trek into a mutual learning experience. You
will be much richer for the experiences, and each successive Crew you
Ranger for will benefit from your steadily increasing knowledge and skills.

Third, learn Philmont - the people, the land, the traditions, the
history. Too many Rangers are focused on how fast they can hike, how
much they can carry, what they're doing on their days off. Spend the
time and let Philmont work its magic on you too. Skip the trip to Raton
and go visit a section of the Ranch you've never seen before - and maybe
will never see again. Do the programs for grins. Hang out with some
backcountry staffers. Watch the sunrise from Sawmill, from Baldy, from
Phillips, from the Tooth of Time. Play some awful guitar on a dozen
staff cabin porches. Zen-Philmont. And pass it on to your Crews.

I envy you.

- Dr. Bob

Matt B. wrote:
> Hey all,
>
> I have been watching this list for a while but have never had a chance
> to ask anything until now.
>
> I just got word that I am going to be a Ranger this summer. What, in
> your opinion makes a good Ranger and what advice would you give to
> someone going out as Ranger staff?
>
>
> IWGBTP! Soon but not soon enough.
>
> Matt
>

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As you gather around this virtual campfire with fellow
Scouts and Scouters, do your best to be trustworthy,
loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient,
cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.
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Received on Tue Nov 20 21:12:19 2007