“America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.” – Abraham Lincoln

Yesterday I had the privilege of marching in the 4th of July parade with my grandson. We marched with the Cub Scouts: he is a Tiger Cub and I am a leader. My grandson Dylan got to carry the American flag down the street in our home town. He was so proud and wanted his folks to see him with the flag. I too was proud. Proud that we are Scouts. Proud that we are Americans. And proud that my grandson is learning to love his country and her flag.

Success-Minded People know that the lessons we teach our children are not restricted to a few national holidays each year. We need to tell our children what it means to be an American and build pride in their country every day. President Ronald Reagan in his 1989 farewell address to the nation said, “All great change in America begins at the dinner table.” It is there, as a family, you build true pride and patriotism. It is in the family discussions you teach the history of America and the principles by which we were founded. America’s strength is in the strength of her families, not her politicians.

It is my deepest desire that my children and grandchildren love and serve their country. First by being good solid citizens and also with a willingness to be called on to serve in whatever way they are needed. This is why I believe so much in the Boy Scout program. The lessons they teach are those that make good citizens and a better nation. The Boy Scout Law teaches boys (and all of us really) to be Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent. These are the characteristics of a Success-Minded Person. These are the characteristics of a winner.

It is all too easy for us to look at our country in its current state and shake our heads with disgust. We know that the corruption we see in government is wrong. We know that the economy is in a mess because it has been mishandled. We see the blame game going on more than trying to find solutions to the mess we are in. Well there is a way to make a better America and it has nothing to do with the government. It is by making a better people. First, you become better. Zig Ziglar said, “Building a better you is the first step to building a better America.” Look at the Scout Law. Does your life line up with these qualities? If not, start there and build a better you.

Next, help your children become the best they can be. It is great (and I highly suggest you do) to have them join the Boy or Girl Scout programs. They will learn so many valuable lessons that will take them through life. Just remember, the real lessons start and stop in the home. You are your child’s best and most important teacher. It is not just by what you say but how you live.

I believe in America and I believe in her people. You have the seeds of greatness in you and you – yes you – can change the world. Go out and do it.

© 2011 John Patrick Hickey