Twelve Points of the Scout Law 
- TRUSTWORTHY.
A Scout tells the truth. He keeps his promise.
Honesty is a part of his code of conduct. People can always depend on him.
The process of becoming trustworthy is a never ending one. Being considered
trustworthy by others is the direct result of the experiences they share
with you, where the actions you have taken and the conduct you have
exhibited have created the expectation that you will do the right thing.
This is not a temporary state of behavior, it is a template by which all of
your actions are patterned.
- LOYAL. A
Scout is true to his family, friends, Scout leaders, school, nation and
world community. This means being faithful to a person, idea, custom, duty
or country. This is not to be confused with blindly following others, but
rather, to follow your heart. Keep the promises that you make, fulfill your
obligations and observe the rules by which we all live.
- HELPFUL. A
Scout is concerned about other people. He willingly volunteers to help
others without expecting payment or reward. One of the best and oldest
images of this is the picture of a Boy Scout helping an old lady to cross
the street. Today, the Scouting movement is focused on helping others
through a multitude of service projects, of which the annual Scouting for
Food drive is a prime example.
- FRIENDLY. A
Scout is a fried to all. He is a brother to other Scouts and all the people
of the world. He seeks to understand others. He respects those with ideas
and customs that are different from his own. This means that you support
your friends in good times and in bad times, that you cooperate with others
and give comfort when needed. A friendly Scout is one who exudes a pleasant
personality, without effort. This is not a forced demeanor, but a natural
tendency to be thoughtful and kind to others. It is acting toward others as
you would have them act toward you.
- COURTEOUS. A
Scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows that
good manners make it easier for people to get along together. This is a
statement about a Scout's behavior. A courteous Scout is one who has
self-discipline. His behavior is an example for others to follow. He doesn't
interrupt when others are talking and listens with intent. He is patient and
waits his turn, and is considerate of those around him.
- KIND. A Scout
understands there is strength in being gentle. He treats others as he wants
to be treated. Without good reason, he does not harm or kill any living
thing. This is the process of being generous or warm-hearted to others,
showing understanding and reaching out with a helping hand when needed, and
without being asked. The practice of performing good deeds and granting
favors without the expectation of something in return is the epitome of
kindness.
- OBEDIENT. A
Scout follows the rules of his family, school, religion and troop. He obeys
the laws of his community and country. If he thinks these rules and laws are
unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than
disobey them. This is part of the democratic process that we learn in
Scouting. Without obedience, the troop cannot function as a team. One
outward sign of obedience and Scout spirit is the wearing of the Scout
uniform. This is an outward sign of respect for both the Scout and his
troop.
- CHEERFUL. A
Scout looks for the bright side of life. He cheerfully does tasks that come
his way. He tries to make others happy. The Scout that practices
cheerfulness is always happy and in good spirits. He is willing and good
humored. He smiles - a lot, and this behavior causes others around him to be
feel the same way. Cheerful Scouts are full of Scout spirit.
- THRIFTY. A Scout
works to pay his way and to help others. He saves for the future. He
protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and
property. He is wise in the management of money and other resources. This
does not mean that the Scout is cheap, but rather that he is resourceful and
makes full use of things around him without being wasteful.
- BRAVE. A Scout
can face danger even if he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what
he thinks is right even if others laugh at him or threaten him. This can
mean having or showing courage in a difficult or dangerous situation by
remaining calm and clear of mind. This is also an inner quality where one
can consciously draw on his inner strength in the face of hardship.
- CLEAN. A Scout
keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He practices good hygiene, on and off
the trail. He chooses the company of those who live by these same ideals. He
helps keep his home and community clean. He leads a life that brings honor
to himself, his peers and his parents and guardians. He respects nature and
wilderness by carrying out his trash after a weekend of camping and hiking.
He does not use profanity nor does he keep the company of those who do. He
defends those who are the target of unkind words and acts.
- REVERENT. A
Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He
respects the beliefs of others. He is tolerant of those whose beliefs differ
from his, and defends their right to their individual beliefs.
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