Boy Scout Rises to the Challenge
Aidan Ehler participates in the Ordeal, a prestigious but difficult first step to full Order of the Arrow membership.
Only three young men from Ventura County were elected by their Scoutmaster and fellow unit members to participate in an Order of the Arrow induction ceremony. Aidan Ehler, a recent eighth-grade graduate from Marymount of Santa Barbara, was one of the three chosen to participate in the ceremony, called the Ordeal.
When asked about the values he learned from this experience, Ehler said, “I learned about cheerful service. You work even when you’re not asked to, you do the right thing even when you’re not being looked at and by not asking why or questioning what is asked, you just get it done.”
According to Scout information, to be eligible for the Order of the Arrow membership, Ehler had to hold the First Class rank as a registered member of a Boy Scout troop. He had to had 15 days and nights of Boy Scout camping, including a long-term camp of six consecutive days and five nights of resident camping
Ehler is a member of a patrol group called the Rhinos in Ventura County. Ehler has been a Boy Scout only since fifth grade but has accomplished more than most do during their entire service.
When asked how he accomplished so much in such a short time, he said, “I did it by going to every single summer camp and participating in every activity that my troop did. You have to stay incredibly active and focused.”
Ehler embodies everything that the Boy Scouts stands for and demonstrates these important qualities in his life each day. Ehler says what has been most valuable to him has been the knowledge of survival skills to get through almost any situation in life.
He says he loves that the Boy Scouts follow the “old-fashioned” way of doing things and attends regular backpacking trips with his troop. They hike into a designated camping area and hike for a while before they camp for the night, then continue to hike and camp at higher elevations each day.
Ehler says he looks forward to using these skills, as well as others acquired throughout his schooling, as he embarks on his journey into high school next year.
Sara Jenkins represents Marymount of Santa Barbara.
» wrote on 07/08/08 @ 05:49 AM
It's certainly a free country, and he can choose to be an atheist and not go on camping trips or give in to peer pressure. I will say I'm impressed that there IS peer pressure at his school to join the Cub Scouts. Didn't realize they were allowed to talk about such things on campus.» wrote on 07/08/08 @ 04:31 AM
It's not just about sexuality. At age 9, my son has thought about it and is an atheist. He's not going to go against his principles to be able to go on camping trips. I'm proud of him for not wanting to give in to the peer pressure to join Cub Scouts at his school.» wrote on 07/07/08 @ 06:22 PM
Congratulations, Aidan. That is quite an honor to be selected. It sounds like it is even harder to be "tapped" today than back in my day. You are wise to be focused and get as much accomplished now before high school activities and jobs start crowding your time. Keep up the good work.» wrote on 07/07/08 @ 07:27 AM
Some of the problems that we face in society today are due in part to our unwillingness to let kids be kids. Why are we forcing our juveniles to become adults at younger and younger ages? As has been stated, Scouting is not about sexuality. Although it's been a while, I don't remember a merit badge even dealing with it. That doesn't make it antiquated, it makes it focused. So let's let young Aidan have his moment in the spotlight and be happy for him. Don't taint it with social issues that you find frustrating. Way to go, Aidan. Keep up the good work! One question for you, though. At the Ordeal, did you have to make your own breakfast with just an egg and a match?» wrote on 07/07/08 @ 03:53 AM
I have a real surprise for you.. this story is not about sexuality. And that is not what the Boy Scouts of America is about either. The aims of scouting are: Build Character, Improve Mental and Physical Fitness, Provide Citizenship training. What ever "your" personal feelings are, there truly is no better organization for kids that exists in America. The leadership training, self confidence, emotional and physical growth that these kids receive is fantastic. It is not a drop in center for kids to shoot pool, play basketball and hang out with very little supervision. It is a very structured program that kids and adults from all walks of life and sexuality benefit from. Surprise! In the era of gang killings on main street Santa Barbara, I encourage you to get more involved with organizations that do a lot of good for kids. Maybe your involvement, instead of ridicule, could help save a life and make this town a better place. Sincerely, Kevin Baird Scoutmaster Troop 50 Eagle Scout» wrote on 07/07/08 @ 03:23 AM
You don't help your crusade when you can't separate the accomplishment of an individual from your condemnation of the organization. Hate the Boy Scouts if you wish, but write a letter to the editor or something rather than gracelessly imposing your views on a story like this. Sheesh.» wrote on 07/06/08 @ 07:35 AM
As nice as the kid may be, they still discriminate against gay people in their membership and employment.Efforts Aim to Take Bite Out of Carpinteria Mosquito Outbreak
Trash Hauler MarBorg Industries Making Inroads In Recycling
Michael Martz Named Partner With Hayes Commercial Group
Officials Bracing For Winter Rains, Floods in Wake of Gap Fire
Local Scouts Get Out-of-This-World Experience With Orbiting Astronaut
KCLU Acquires Santa Barbara Radio Station KIST-AM
Santa Barbara Ranch Plans Building Toward a Legacy Project
» The Noozhawk Network
The Ultimate Allowance Financial Parenting System
Recession-proof your children. From dependence to financial independence in 18 years flat!
Empower your child to move out and stay out.
www.ultimateallowancebook.com
Santa Barbara Psychotherapy
Individuals ~ Couples ~ Families
Kristine J. Schwarz, M.A., MFT
Marriage and Family Therapist Lic. # MFC 44909
www.santabarbarapsychotherapy.com
McIntire Physical Therapy
Most Insurance Accepted Headache, Back, Neck, Scoliosis, Ribs, Shoulder, Hip, Knee, Ankle, Foot, TMJ Pain & Dysfunction One Hour, One on One with Licensed Physical Therapist 20 years experience McIntirePT.com
