Explanation of the Boy Scouts of America oath, law, motto and slogan of having good character. Also refer to promise, duty, God, honesty, trust, ethics, morality, attitude, reputation, courage, responsibility, reliability, truth, integrity, pride, dignity, loyalty, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions

Using Boy Scout Oath as a Character Guide

by Ron Kurtus (revised 20 August 2006)

The Boy Scouts of America promote character values in their oath, law, motto and slogan. These concepts provide a good model for other organizations concerned with the character of their members. You can follow these precepts as a guide for your own character and that of your children.

Questions you may have include:

• What is the Boy Scout Oath?
• What is the Boy Scout Law?
• What is their motto and slogan?

This lesson will answer those questions. There is a mini-quiz near the end of the lesson.

Boy Scout Oath (or Promise)

The Boy Scouts has a general set of principles that the boys are expected to follow. You can apply a similar oath to your own life.

On my honor, I will do my best:

• To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law
• To help other people at all times
• To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight

Scout Law

The Scout Law is a summary of character issues that scouts pledge to follow. We've modified them to apply to you.

Trustworthy

I tell the truth. I keep my promises. Honesty is part of my code of conduct. People can depend on me.

Loyal

I am true to my family, leaders, friends, community and nation.

Helpful

I am concerned about other people. I do things willingly for others without pay or reward.

Friendly

I am a friend to all. I am a brother or sister to others in my group. I seek to understand others. I respect those with ideas and customs other than my own.

Courteous

I am polite to everyone, regardless of age or position. I know good manners make it easier for people to get along together.

Kind

I understand there is strength in being gentle. I treat others as they want to be treated. I do not hurt or kill harmless things without reason.

Obedient

I follow the rules of my family, group and organization. I obey the laws of my community and country. If I think these rules and laws are unfair, I try to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobey them.

Cheerful

I look for the bright side of things. I cheerfully do tasks that come my way. I try to make others happy.

Thrifty

I work to pay my way and to help others. I save for unforeseen needs. I protect and conserve natural resources. I carefully use time and property.

Brave

I can face danger even if I am afraid. I have the courage to stand for what I think is right even if others laugh at or threaten me.

Clean

I keep my body and mind fit and clean. I go around with those who believe in living by these same ideals. I help keep my home and community clean.

Reverent

I am reverent toward God. I am faithful in my religious duties. I respect the beliefs of others.

Scout motto and slogan

You can apply the Scout motto and slogan as your own.

Motto

Be prepared

Slogan

Do a good turn daily

In conclusion

The Boy Scout Oath, Law, Motto and Slogan are excellent character guidelines for any group, organization or individual.

Reader Feedback and Questions

You benefit from having good character

Resources

The following resources provide information on this subject.

Websites

Boy Scouts of America National Council

Boy Scout Trail - Resources for Cub Scouts, Webelos, and Boy Scouts

MacScouter - Scouting resources

Scoutorama - Boy Scout supplies

Character Resources

Books

Top-rated books on Character

Top-rated books on the Boy Scouts

Miscellaneous

Mini-quiz to check your understanding

1. What is one part of the Boy Scout Oath?

2. Why is a Scout helpful?

3. What is the Boy Scout motto?

If you got all three correct, you are on your way to becoming a Champion in understanding Character. If you had problems, you had better look over the material again.

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Character topics

Using Boy Scout Oath as a Character Guide