(Hold up a hand axe for all to see.)
Scouts, I have in my hand a tool that helped the pioneers blaze a trail across our country. Many lives depended upon this instrument to protect, shelter, and feed them. The care and handling of the axe, of course, was given only to a very responsible individual, one who was certain to keep it sharp and clean, one who would know that placing the axe too close to a fire would heat up the metal and cause it to lose its temper, thus rendering it useless. Just as the group of pioneers depended upon the axe, so do the people in your life depend upon you as a
Scout. When you joined Scouting, it was you who promised to be an individual sharp of mind and clean of body, someone who could be entrusted with many responsibilities, including fire.
During your time in Scouting, you will undoubtedly be involved in an argument or some fiery discussion while on a campout. When things get out of hand, always try to remain calm and in control of yourself. If you become overheated in those situations and lose your temper, you’ll find yourself rendered as useless as that axe.
