The
three fingers held up like the three points of the Scout badge remind a Scout
of the three parts of his promise:
· His duty to God and the Queen (his country)
· To help others
· To obey the Scout Law
The
thumb over the little finger reminds a Scout that the strong, protect the weak.
Salute
The
salute and the badge also look like the arrow head on an old compass – always
pointing in the right direction.
The
salute is made with the right hand, which is brought to a position just in
front and above the right ear, when a hat or beret is worn the fingers should
just touch the edge of the hat. For a smart salute the hand is brought up into
position slowly, in a wide arc and then at the end of the salute straight down
by your side (longest way up, shortest way down).
When
parading with a Scout stave, the salute is made with the left hand and the
stave in the right hand.
Bend
the left elbow at a right angle, and with the palm downwards just touch the
fingertips to the stave.
Sign
The
Scout sign is identical to the salute, but instead of touching the hat, it is
made next to your right shoulder, with the palm facing forward. The sign is
used by all invested
Scouts
who are present at the investiture ceremony of a new Scout, it is also used when
Scouts great each other – especially if they aren’t wearing hats.
Handshake
When
Scouts shake hands they use their left hands. This is a sign of trust and
friendship. Warriors used to carry their spears in their right hand and their
shields in their left hand. To offer your shield hand to another person leaves
you open to attack, and to do so is a great sign of trust.
It
is also said that your left hand is closer to your heart, and that may also be
a sign of friendship.
Scouts
all over the world shake with their left hands, in some places they also bend
their little finger into the palm, as a secret sign of Scouting friendship.
Motto
The
Scout Motto is Be Prepared. You
can see these words under the Scout symbol of the fleur de Lys – the three
points of this also remind us of the three parts of our Promise. The words are
contained in an upturned scroll, which might remind you of a smile - how your
mouth should look as you do your duty.
B-P
chose this motto, because he believed that through observation, training and awareness
a Scout should always be prepared to tackle any situation – nothing should
catch you by surprise.
