You know, this time of year always gets me thinking. The air cools down, the leaves start showing off their reds and golds, and everything feels like it’s gently reminding us that nothing stays the same forever. Fall has a way of tapping us on the shoulder and saying, “Hey… pay attention. Things are changing.”
The other day, I was standing in my kitchen holding my favorite mug — the one that’s been with me through early mornings, late nights, and more hot cocoa than I’d ever admit. I caught myself wondering, “Is this cup permanent?”
Of course not. It has tiny micro-cracks in the porcelain I can’t see. One day, it’ll slip from my hands, or the handle will finally give out, or maybe it’ll just wear down from years of use. Nothing lasts forever — not even the things we take care of the most.
But here’s the part that matters: that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t care for them. Just because my mug isn’t permanent doesn’t mean I stop washing it, or setting it down gently, or enjoying every warm drink it holds. I take care of it because it matters to me *right now.*
And that’s true for much more than mugs. It’s true for friendships. For teams. For patrols and packs and troops. For moments at camp. For mentors and leaders. For the kids who look up to us. Everything changes — that’s part of the adventure. Things grow, shift, and sometimes end. But that doesn’t make them any less important.
If anything, it makes them more meaningful. Because the moments we have are happening now. The people beside us are here now. The chances to help, guide, teach, and show kindness are happening in this season, in this chapter, right where we stand.
So whatever your own “favorite mug” is — maybe your unit, your friendships, your community, or even this Scouting journey — take care of it. Appreciate it. Hold it gently. Because nothing is permanent… and that’s exactly why it’s worth the effort.
Until next time, stay warm, stay curious, and enjoy the season of change around you.
P.S. If you’d like to help keep the WackyScouter “mug” from cracking, consider supporting us on Ko-fi or grabbing a patch or sticker. Every bit truly keeps the campfire glowing:
https://ko-fi.com/wackyeagle
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