This is from Russell Smart, our Southern Region WJ Chairman:SCOUTMASTER’S LAST MINUTE: Well guys, this is it…the "last minute" from your old Southern Region Chairman. The above logo, common to Scouts all around the world, is the crest of the World Organization of Scouting Movement. It is the universal symbol of your brotherhood and camaraderie with over 28 million boys and girls, men and women who share membership in the largest youth movement on earth. Yes, we have differences in language, custom, race, and religion….but for almost two weeks you will forget all about these barriers as you discover the much more important common bond of friendship and service.
My hope is that I have been able to stir in you an anticipation that will literally consume you as our departure date approaches. This experience can be the summit of your Scouting career. I say "can be" because the rest is up to you. Each Scout and each leader will have his or her own most special moments during the magical time of jamboree. Yours will be unique to you. Maybe it will be a special friendship, an exciting event, an unforgettable ceremony, or an unusual meal. Who knows? All I know is that if you are ready and open your mind and heart to the possibilities, it will happen for you as it has for thousands and thousands of Scouts from all over the world in the twenty previous World Jamborees.
Your unit leaders and I have shared with you our dreams and a few of the special moments from Jamborees of the past. But there is no way to show you the "Jamboree Spirit" that Baden-Powell started in 1920. If you are ready, it will surround you, overwhelm you, and finally consume you as you pass through the gateway to the 21st World Scout Jamboree in Hylands Park, Chelmsford England on July 27th.
Once again and finally, thank you for letting me share this magical experience with you. Parents, all of us will "do our best" to care for your sons and daughters as if they were our own. In one sense, I guess that they are. I can hardly wait!!!
