Last fall, my son stood under the warm October sun, proudly wearing his Boy Scouts uniform, beside a table brimming with assorted popcorn varieties his troop was selling. This is a traditional fundraiser designed to generate funds for their various activities and camping gear.
Upon arriving at the convenience store where the troop set up shop, my son joined his friends as they were guided by their leader to be polite and respectful, with a gentle reminder not to pressure potential customers.
As the hours passed, it became clear that many shoppers were irritated by the sight of a group of boys in tan uniforms, asking if they’d consider supporting Scouting. Some hurried past, deliberately avoiding eye contact to sidestep a polite rejection. While it was disheartening, a few kind souls did stop to purchase popcorn or listen to the boys’ pitches.
However, one man’s approach left me furious. As he neared the table, he loudly declared his disdain for Boy Scouts and insisted that he would never part with his money for their efforts. He scolded them for “begging” and suggested they engage in “real” activities, like sports. His rudeness was palpable, and after his tirade, he stormed off, leaving the boys speechless and disheartened. To their credit, they didn’t retaliate or respond with anger, though I wished I could have confronted that unpleasant individual on their behalf.
Here’s the reality: I understand the frustrations surrounding fundraising. I too dislike being approached by friends and family with order forms for cookies, candles, and various events. I often wish there was a more efficient way for teams and clubs to raise funds without the obligation of selling items.
Yet, what truly bothers me more than the act of fundraising itself is the rude behavior directed at the children involved. It’s simply unacceptable for an adult to berate a kid standing outside a store selling cookies for their Girl Scout troop or candy bars for their sports team.
Today’s children may lack some of the social skills that previous generations possessed, primarily due to the influence of technology and social media. With less face-to-face interaction and more time spent texting, they are often unprepared for public engagement. Fundraising allows them to develop vital skills, such as overcoming public speaking anxiety and enhancing social interactions. The children at those tables learn to read body language, collaborate as a team, and take pride in being active members of their clubs. When an adult is rude to a child attempting to break out of their shell, it can be genuinely damaging.
Moreover, the kids aren’t responsible for the need to fundraise. They don’t set the budgets or decide the costs associated with their activities. Whether it’s the expense of football gear or the financial requirements for a camping trip, these experiences are crucial for a child’s growth and development. That ten-dollar purchase of popcorn or cookies could mean a child from the city experiences a weekend in nature, learning essential skills like fire-building. Adults should reflect on the eager faces in front of them and recognize that belittling them can have long-lasting effects.
After the unpleasant encounter with the rude man, another gentleman approached the table. Without hesitation, he reached for his wallet as he approached, smiling warmly. He engaged with each boy, asking them about their products and genuinely listening to their pitches. He complimented their maturity and, with a grin, pulled out $100 to buy a hefty supply of caramel popcorn, all while playfully acknowledging his wife’s teasing about his diet. He simply stated, “I was a Scout once, and I was that kid who couldn’t afford to go on trips. I try to give back whenever I see Boy Scouts because that’s what it’s all about.”
That’s precisely the spirit we need. As he walked away with a load of popcorn, one of the boys remarked that he wanted to emulate that man when he grew up, and I couldn’t help but tear up. Kindness is crucial, even when you’re rushing through your grocery shopping.
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In summary, while you may not feel compelled to buy what children are selling, remember that kindness and respect should always prevail. Their efforts deserve acknowledgment, and treating them with decency can make a world of difference.
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