Firewatch, The
| Category: | Reflective |
|---|---|
| Notes: | A closing campfire reflection about being entrusted with the final embers of the fire. Emphasizes Scout trust, responsibility, and quiet leadership. |
Years ago, at a summer camp deep in the hills, the Scoutmaster finished the final song and stood up. The fire was down to its last glowing coals. He looked over the circle and said, "I need one Scout to stay behind—just for a little while. To keep watch. To make sure the fire goes completely cold. To leave it better than we found it."
One Scout stepped forward. No fuss, no questions. He didn't say much. He just nodded.
While the others drifted off to tents and sleep, that Scout sat alone by the embers. He stirred the coals. Poured water. Waited. Watched the steam curl up into the stars. Not for attention. Not for credit. Just because he was asked. And trusted.
The next morning, the fire ring was cold. Clean. Silent. No trace but a memory. The Scout had done his job. He had kept watch—not just over the fire, but over the Scout Law, the campsite, and the quiet promise we all make when we wear that uniform.
Sometimes, leadership isn't loud. Sometimes, it's a quiet moment by fading embers. Sometimes, it's being the one who stays, because it's the right thing to do.
That's the firewatch. And every Scout is called to it, in some way.