Today, I had an Eagle Board of review. I impressed the socks off my board, resulting in them passing me for the rank of Eagle Scout.
For those not familiar with the Eagle Rank of the Boy Scouts of America, let me take a little time to explain it.
Eagle Scout is the highest rank a scout can earn period. Only 13% of scouts earn it. Those that do go on to become elected officials, astronauts, explorers, and executives in major corporations. They embody the scout oath and law. To become one, you must earn 21 merit badges, 11 of which are required for Eagle, ten of which can be anything you want. In addition to this, you must spend six months in a leadership position, complete an Eagle project, pass a scoutmasters conference, and a board of review.
The board was the last thing. I had to prepare a binder (known as an Eagle Binder) for my board, which outlined everything I've ever done in my scouting career. It included all my merit badges, ranks, leadership positions, and special awards. I also had to get six letters of recommendation, one from a teacher, one from my parents, one from my religious advisor, and three from people that know me well. On top of this I had to give a statement of my life goals and ambitions.
The Board looked at the binder and then asked me questions. I not only answered their questions, but I told them stories. One of the board members said that "We should have a campfire and some marshmellows." That's how the board was, it was like telling stories over a campfire.
If none of this makes any sense whatsoever, let's put this in another perspective: the last eleven years of my life has been to become an Eagle Scout. Now, I'm an Eagle Scout. It's one of my life goals, now I can cross it off the list.
The whole thing is only beginning to set in now.
Come to think of it, I'm proud of you too. Have a cookie!
Gender:
Points: 2090
Reviews: 863