Writing prompt:
Requirement #7 for Eagle Scouts is an essay about your personal Life Goals. It is submitted along with your Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook and Eagle Scout Rank Application.
The essay should be written in paragraph form using and include both your short-term and long-term goals. Most scouts find their completed essay to be 5000 words long. This overview serves to help the Eagle Committee member who reads it to get a sense of who you are as an individual to prepare for his role as Chair of your Eagle Board of Review. In writing this document your goal is to present yourself as the thoughtful and sincere individual you are. It is best to include only those topics you can support in a conversation. Do your best to make this a flowing narrative of your life, and not a choppy checklist of items.
Introduction:My venture into the world of Scouting has undeniably transformed my perspective on life, becoming a profound odyssey of self-discovery. The awe-inspiring landscapes and arduous trails at the Philmont Scout Ranch tested not only my physical endurance but also my mental fortitude. The formidable ascent up Mount Baldy, with its panoramic views, pushed me to my limits, unearthing the tenacity and resilience that I had cultivated through my Scouting experiences. The pursuit of a diverse array of merit badges during the immersive summer camps instilled in me a deep appreciation for continuous learning and the multifaceted nature of skill development. Furthermore, my progression through the ranks and merit badges within the Scouting community solidified my grasp of the significance of setting ambitious long-term goals and actively working toward achieving them.
Upon introspection of my interactions with the scoutmasters and adult leaders, I've come to deeply appreciate the profound influence of their mentorship on my personal growth and leadership development. Their guidance and wisdom have been instrumental in shaping my character, fostering within me a strong sense of accountability and empathy. Their careful mentoring has deepened my understanding of the fundamental values and principles underpinning Scouting, instilling within me an unwavering commitment to serving the community and leading by example.
The trajectory of my Scouting journey mirrors the quintessential stages of the hero's journey narrative, emphasizing the transformative nature of the challenges and milestones that define this unique path. It serves as a poignant reflection of the growth and self-awareness fostered by the adventurous spirit that defines Scouting, acting as a guiding light through the various stages of personal development and leadership. This narrative lens offers a profound perspective that enables me to recognize the broader significance of my Scouting expedition, highlighting universal themes of resilience and self-discovery that extend beyond the boundaries of mere fiction or fantasy.
Each step along the way within this heroic framework resonates with the triumphs and trials that have characterized my personal Scouting journey. From the initial exhilarating Call to Adventure, marked by the excitement of embarking on challenging expeditions, to the rigorous Road of Trials, characterized by demanding treks and the pursuit of strenuous merit badges, each stage has been pivotal in my evolution as both a leader and an individual. The mentorship provided by my scoutmasters and adult leaders has perfectly embodied the essence of a guiding figure, imparting invaluable insights and wisdom at crucial junctures, empowering me to navigate the intricacies of my Scouting voyage with an unwavering spirit and resolve.
Living the legacy of Scouting has meant embracing values and experiences that transcend abstract ideals, seamlessly integrating into everyday life. Following in the footsteps of Lord Baden-Powell, Scouting has encapsulated a living, breathing ethos that extends far beyond the realm of outdoor activities and leadership roles. It has acted as a catalyst for fostering personal growth and resilience, engraining the core principles of the Scout Law and Oath within the fabric of my character development and leadership capabilities. These principles have served as practical beacons guiding me through the journey of self-discovery and community service, reinforcing the pivotal role of Scouting in nurturing essential life skills and fostering a resolute sense of community spirit.
In traversing the various stages of this heroic journey, the seamless transition from one milestone to another has been underscored by an unwavering dedication to personal growth and leadership. The pivotal role of my mentors and leaders has played an indispensable part in shaping my understanding of the fundamental ethos and principles of Scouting. The amalgamation of diverse experiences at Philmont Scout Ranch, Mount Baldy, and summer camp has catalyzed my personal and leadership development, propelling me toward a deeper comprehension of the significance of teamwork and perseverance in the Scouting universe.
Scouting Experiences:
My time spent in the great outdoors during Scout camping trips opened my eyes to the personally transformative power of nature through the experience it offers us. I always found a deep sense of peace and purpose in spending time in the great outdoors with my troop. Learning the ins and outs of wilderness survival and the significance of environmental conservation became more than just a lesson; but a a personal journey of resilience and self-discovery. Each challenge I overcame in the untamed terrain strengthened my resolve to keep pushing myself and never stop learning.
Taking on leadership roles within the troop was a defining chapter of my Scouting journey. Serving as an Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL), I led the charge in revamping our patrol system, fostering a culture of inclusivity and teamwork. Guiding younger Scouts through essential skills like knot-tying and fire-building solidified the bonds of camaraderie and cooperation within our group. As we organized and executed various troop activities, I discovered the profound value of effective communication and collaboration in building a thriving and united community.
My contributions to community service projects brought home the importance of giving back and making a tangible impact. Leading the charge in the ECC Lakewood Community Center Landscaping project as part of my Eagle Scout mission illuminated the power of community involvement and civic duty. Working alongside local volunteers and residents to revitalize the center's outdoor space realized the value of community involvement, especially concerning the personal development of young leaders
The journey through Scouting also taught me the importance of teamwork and communication. Collaborating with my peers during troop activities and service initiatives enlightened the importance of mutual support and respect. Each group challenge and problem-solving exercise deepened my appreciation for the diverse perspectives and skills that each team member brought to the table, including the vital role of collaboration in achieving important goals.
Exploring my own limits and persevering through challenging merit badge pursuits left an indelible mark on my character. Striving to earn the 21 required merit badges tested my endurance and commitment to this development. Conquering these milestones taught me the value of persistence and discipline in the face of adversity, imprinting in me a lasting dedication to personal growth and the pursuit of excellence.
Plans After Graduation:
As I stand at the threshold of post-graduation life, I find myself contemplating the multitude of paths that lie before me. The decision to embark on a particular journey after graduation hinges on my profound desire to acquire a comprehensive set of skills, skills that will act as my compass in navigating the intricacies of life and realizing my long-cherished dreams. I cannot overlook the critical factor, the gap in my current skillset, a gap that necessitates a meticulously planned strategy for self-education and the development of practical skills.
To fulfill this objective, I have meticulously crafted a pragmatic blueprint that places self-education, guided skill development, proficiency demonstration, and practical implementation at its core. In this intricate plan, I endeavor to strike an intricate balance, harmonizing my educational pursuits with avenues for creative expression and relevant employment. Although I appreciate the intrinsic value of a traditional college education, I remain vigilant of the potential pitfalls associated with many conventional college courses. Some of these courses tend to be academically oriented, often driven by ideological leanings and lacking the real-world applicability that I yearn for.
Thus, my plan involves the pursuit of specific courses that I perceive as possessing genuine value. These courses include those focusing on business law, writing, entrepreneurship, and tech skills. The beauty of the modern age is that these subjects can be effectively studied online, providing a convenient and accessible avenue for learning. My conviction lies in the idea that authentic value emerges from a structured, methodical study, seamlessly intertwined with creative expression, all of which should be supported by industry-recognized certifications. I remain open to the possibility of pursuing a degree, but only if it seamlessly aligns with my aspirations and can be expedited through alternative routes like CLEP tests.
Furthermore, I am discerning about the predominant emphasis on securing graduate degrees merely to meet the expected standards of the job market. This approach can be likened to accumulating superficial knowledge and potentially placing oneself amid a crowded job market without a distinct advantage. While I haven't entirely ruled out the notion of pursuing graduate studies, I maintain a degree of skepticism regarding the practical utility of such degrees in my long-term career plans. I tend to favor online and part-time study options, which I believe offer a balanced approach to valuable coursework and sustainable employment.
In addition to my reservations about traditional college education, I hold a critical perspective on the conventional 'college experience.' This experience often hinges on the dynamics of social interactions that no longer hold the same relevance in today's rapidly evolving society. The old model of making friends by chance or by design and engaging in competitive games doesn't fully align with my personal preferences or long-term vision. I place a premium on pragmatism and real-world relevance, where skills hold a more valuable position than mere credentials or a resume filled with academic degrees.
This discerning perspective extends to advanced degrees, which can broadly be categorized into academic and professional realms. Academic degrees may serve as stepping stones to a seemingly endless academic journey or to careers in office environments, neither of which particularly resonates with my aspirations. Professional degrees, such as an MBA or MJS, offer a more direct path to pursuing white-collar professions. Nevertheless, I am cautious about investing in a master's degree without a clear return on investment, especially if the courses do not closely align with my career path. The value of such a pursuit remains somewhat limited in my discerning view.
In summary, my post-graduation plans are fundamentally rooted in the acquisition of practical skills that will equip me to excel as an entrepreneur. My approach to this endeavor revolves around a well-thought-out strategy for self-education, creative output, skill development through employment, and skill application. While I remain open to valuable college courses that align with my goals, I am careful about the pursuit of graduate studies without clear benefits. My focus remains resolutely centered on acquiring tangible skills and practical experiences that will empower me to make a meaningful impact in my chosen field and attain the level of expertise I aspire to achieve.
Long-term goals:
There is a separation of occupation and calling in life, which I will define further down. According to Gary North, "occupation" refers to a job done for monetary compensation, while "calling" is work done out of a sense of religious or moral duty. However, career choices are deeply rooted in self-perception. Thanks to my experiences in scouting, I perceive myself as a competent leader and executive, as well as an amateur philosopher and thinker. This self-perception grants me insights about the world and the ability to articulate them systematically, a crucial skill for any creative enterprise.
As a minor aspiration, I would like to explore my creative side, but I question whether this aligns with my true aptitudes. While this aspiration is driven by a sense of calling, it may not be the best fit for me. Monetizing creative work often relies on media channels, and I have reservations about both the platforms and my ability to secure production value for my work. The challenge feels like a chicken and egg problem, as I lack the creative genius and charisma necessary to develop such an enterprise from scratch or through significant debt obligations. Moreover, pursuing this path would likely require an academic humanities degree, a path I am currently opposed to. Additionally, my creations would appeal to a niche demographic, limiting their potential for widespread influence or importance beyond mere entertainment value.
I have considered summarizing and documenting important books as visual media on video platforms for some time, intending to leverage this experience to build a career in some field of media production. However, certain obstacles exist, including the fact that my vision may not align with the mainstream industry standards, making it challenging to break into the field. The revenue potential in this creative pursuit is limited, even with a successful implementation strategy, as demonstrated by the experiences of successful practitioners like Tom Woods and Gary North. Notably, their achievements have been propelled by their status as Ivy League PhD historians and leading academics with substantial online followings and mailing lists. Jordan Peterson is another prominent example, having gained significant influence through his prolific commentary and work as a former tenured professor at Harvard.
Pursuing a creative occupation would consume all my time and energy, potentially hindering any higher calling I might aspire to achieve. The solitary nature of academic life is isolating and despondent, leaving little room for meaningful interpersonal connections outside of one's immediate household. Moreover, my output would be restricted by my limited work capacity, compounded by challenges related to my IQ and attention deficit disorder (ADD). Consequently, I risk neglecting my primary aptitude for leadership, honed through my scouting experiences, in favor of a purely mental pursuit with uncertain prospects for success and financial reward. While creative work might offer psychic pleasure, I recognize that similar satisfaction can be derived from pursuing business endeavors, and business success could enable me to explore creative pursuits in the future.
In contrast, my major aspiration, tied to my calling, is to combine my key aptitudes in leadership and critical thinking through entrepreneurship. My Eagle project has provided valuable lessons in planning and leadership, while my analytical thinking skills have enabled me to understand complex psychological and economic literature. I have begun the preliminary steps toward this goal, including drafting multiple business plan documents, taking extensive notes, and delving into entrepreneurship literature. However, I recognize the need to select a definite vision and begin building a skill stack aligned with that vision. This process entails a continuous cycle of learning, applying my knowledge on the job, and refining my skill set to enhance my chances of success. Over time, my goal is to identify and seize opportunities that will allow me to build something I am passionate about for the future.
There is a separation of occupation and calling in life, defined by Gary North as a job one does for monetary compensation versus work done out of a sense of religious or moral duty. I will delve into this concept more deeply later on. However, before the choice between occupation and calling, ambitions arise that stem from self-perception. Thanks to scouting, I perceive myself as a competent leader and executive, as well as an amateur philosopher and thinker in my private life. This self-perception grants me certain insights about the world and the ability to articulate them systematically, which is essential to any creative enterprise, even those that are non-verbal.
As a minor aspiration, I have considered pursuing a creative path, although I'm uncertain if this aligns with my aptitude. While it may be driven by a sense of calling, the demands and promises of such a pursuit seem highly imbalanced. Monetizing my creative work would require media channels, and I have reservations about both these channels and my ability to secure production value for my projects. It seems to be a chicken and egg problem. Additionally, the type of work I aspire to do would necessitate an academic humanities degree, which goes against my principles. Moreover, my creations would likely appeal to a small and isolated demographic, limiting their potential influence and importance beyond mere entertainment value. This highly competitive space would require significant effort, time, and resources to make a mark, which I'm not entirely sure is feasible or worth the investment.
What I have considered is summarizing and documenting essential books as visual media on video platforms for several years, aiming to use that experience as a springboard for a career in media production, potentially within a studio setting. However, I have encountered numerous obstacles in realizing this vision, including limitations of revenue potential and the solitary nature of academic work, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and despondency. My isolated work capacity, along with my cognitive limitations, including my IQ and ADD, would further restrict my output. Engaging in creative work of this nature might also hinder my potential for higher leadership roles, which I have honed during my scouting experiences. I am hesitant to commit to a path that may offer little economic reward and significantly limit my potential for success.
On the other hand, my major aspiration, rooted in my calling, combines both my key aptitudes, leadership and critical thinking, in the realm of entrepreneurship. My experiences with planning and leadership during my Eagle project have provided valuable insights into the intricacies of organizational management and team coordination. Coupled with my intellectual pursuits, I have developed a solid understanding of psychological and economic principles, allowing me to navigate complex business dynamics with confidence. I have started outlining rough business plans and accumulating extensive notes on entrepreneurship, constantly immersing myself in related literature to enhance my knowledge further. However, I recognize the need to define a specific vision and begin cultivating the necessary skill set to turn that vision into a reality. This involves understanding and building a comprehensive skill stack that encompasses various competencies essential for successful entrepreneurship. As I continue learning on the job and refining my skill set, I aim to identify and capitalize on new opportunities that align with my passion and expertise, gradually shaping a venture that embodies my aspirations and values for the future.
The notion that an occupation should align with one's calling is an imperative grounded in the economic concept of comparative advantage. This principle underscores the idea that an individual's occupation and their calling can and should find a common ground. In my particular case, the choice of entrepreneurship represents the culmination of a creative amalgamation of self-perception and the opportunity cost associated with selecting this occupation as a pathway to fulfilling my calling. It serves as the sphere where I perceive my irreplaceability, resonating deeply with what I believe I am destined to pursue. Austrian school economist Per Bylund asserts that the entrepreneur embodies the driving force behind market-based innovation, possessing a unique set of skills that enable them to identify and leverage gaps within the market, thereby fostering healthy competition and contributing to overall economic growth. As I contemplate my professional trajectory, this idea of alignment between occupation and calling takes on a profound significance, emphasizing the importance of channeling my efforts toward an avenue that not only complements my inherent abilities but also resonates deeply with my sense of purpose and mission.
At the heart of my calling, if I were to distill my entire personal drive into a singular expression, it would epitomize a profound faith in an all-encompassing system of dominion. This commitment entails unwavering faith in the divine authority of God over humanity, the self, one's identity, and the intricate layers and variations within the hierarchy of identity. To encapsulate this concept succinctly, it can be best understood as love, yet more precisely, it embodies the order dictated by a just will, representing the truth that is willed into action through our capacity to enact it. The love of God for humankind within the realm of dominion, and humanity's unwavering faith in God as the epitome of love, leads to the expression of love toward our fellow beings, grounded in the depths of their faith. The Greek Orthodox tradition refers to this overarching ideal as Cosmos, although my comprehension of its complete essence remains somewhat limited. In this context, the will of order takes on the purity of love, as love emerges as the guiding force empowered by faith in the divine sovereign, made feasible within the identity of the self that finds its place within the scope of dominion. Practically speaking, my deepest motivation revolves around subordinating the body's faith to the will of truth, in an endeavor to create something inherently good and compelling—a functional and cohesive system of order and dominion that is both inherently virtuous and compelling.
Calling and Dominion, Metaphysics: To create something that resonates with truth and is deserving of faith, while remaining loyal to the principles of dominion, implies expressing love for one's neighbor through a dedicated devotion to our shared God. This expression of love permeates every aspect of our lives, extending to the formation of families, the nurturing of extended communities, the establishment of places of worship, and the construction of civil organizations, with a special emphasis on the intricate dynamics of businesses. Human actions, at their core, are invariably entwined with economic considerations, demonstrating that there exists no superior hierarchy of human action beyond an economic structure that remains truthful in the same manner as the faith vested in its very existence. This observation illuminates the profound significance of the market, businesses, and trade, each representing tangible manifestations of the innate love we hold for our fellow beings within the framework of the same shared dominion.
I believe that a divine commandment is to love our neighbor, and this is best fulfilled in the market where free trade embodies the agape of mankind living under the same ultimate laws of economic cause and effect. Regardless of whether they acknowledge the same God or not, metaphysically, they affirm His law through their manifested actions. Marketable economic goods are more worthy of my production compared to other forms of economic goods simply due to their manifestly preferential value to all parties involved. A spiritual or creative work finds its value or magnitude of glory in others' willingness to invest resources in it. The reason one might decide to produce one thing over another, for instance, something less economically valuable compared to something nominally moreso would not only be due to his profit motive but also a sense of personal calling and comparative advantage. Here I am speaking of my division in calling. I have identified where my comparative advantage and calling might lie within my chosen occupation, with the economic role of an entrepreneur, and the profit motive is obvious. I chose this occupation as a long-term goal in alignment with the maximum convergence of opportunity for my comparative advantage as I perceive it and with my sense of calling as previously defined.
In the pursuit of a purposeful and fulfilling life, engagement in various activities serves as a means to achieve a greater end. While occupational endeavors are important, they represent only a fraction of the holistic approach to life. It is imperative to acknowledge that our actions should not be solely focused on material gains but should also reflect our commitment to spiritual fulfillment within the context of 'Cosmosis.' This broader perspective underscores the significance of faith in the love of cosmic dominion, contributing to a sense of eudaimonia that transcends material pursuits. My commitment to charity goes beyond the mere act of giving and extends to the sharing of virtues, fostering a comprehensive philosophy that enriches both my life and the lives of those around me.
Through my understanding of the cardinal virtues, including prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude, I have acquired a strong foundation that influences my decision-making and approach to challenges. My mother has been a pillar of unconditional love and support, nurturing my emotional well-being, while my father has instilled in me the values of resilience and determination. These formative experiences within my family have shaped my character and instilled in me a deep sense of gratitude and compassion. My enduring commitment to Scouting has further enriched my life, providing me with valuable mental models and honing my skills, thus preparing me for the challenges that lie ahead.
In addition to family and Scouting, my active involvement in various community activities has instilled in me a sense of responsibility and community engagement. Through my participation in religious activities, I have developed a deeper understanding of faith and its role in fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth. These experiences have not only shaped my character but have also contributed to my personal growth and development, instilling within me a profound appreciation for the values of compassion, resilience, and integrity. As I move forward, I intend to carry these values with me, allowing them to guide my actions and decisions, and serving as a source of strength and inspiration in all my future endeavors.
Family, Scouting, and the Ethics of Community Involvement:
Throughout my life, my family has played a fundamental role in shaping my character and influencing my personal development. My mother has been a constant source of love and support, nurturing my emotional well-being and fostering values of compassion and empathy. This support has deeply influenced my understanding of the importance of caring for others and the significance of being there for those we love. My father, on the other hand, has been a mentor who instilled in me the values of perseverance and mental fortitude. He taught me the importance of facing life's challenges with resilience and determination, which has been a valuable lesson that extends far beyond Scouting and has equipped me to tackle various obstacles I encounter in life.
My long-term involvement in Scouting has provided me with valuable mental models and practical skills that continue to influence my decision-making and approach to challenges. Guided by the principles of the Scout Oath and Law, I've come to appreciate the importance of rationality in making sound judgments and decisions. Scouting has sharpened my sense of fair play, emphasizing the significance of justice and integrity in my interactions with others. The virtue of moderation, as articulated in the Scout Law, has taught me to approach situations with thoughtful restraint and balance, ensuring that I don't act impulsively. Furthermore, Scouting has been instrumental in developing my moral courage, empowering me to stand up for what I believe is right and just.
My Eagle project stands as a testament to my commitment to making a meaningful and lasting impact on the world around me, aligning with the principles I've learned through Scouting. It represents a manifestation of charity and diligence, as it entailed extensive planning, organization, and execution to achieve its goals. I view my participation in the community as a stepping stone in the grander process of communal reconstruction. This perspective is deeply rooted in my faith and the belief in the Kingdom of God, as expounded by the teachings of Gary North in his book on productive Christianity. North's work outlines the necessity for individuals to actively contribute to their communities, no matter how small their roles may seem, to bring about positive change and foster a sense of shared purpose and destiny.
My active involvement in my church community underscores the significance of the three theological virtues – faith, hope, and charity – in shaping my moral compass. These virtues, as elucidated by theological scholars like Thomas Aquinas, Cornelius Van Til, R.J. Rushdoony, and Gary North, have provided me with an ethical foundation that transcends the temporal challenges and struggles we face. This faith-based perspective has offered me profound insights into the nature of truth and the moral absolutes that guide my actions and decisions. The existential presuppositional apologetics I've embraced affirms that my identity and purpose find their profound meaning within God's supreme Law. I can't imagine living any other way, as the intrinsic truth of God's dominion is my guiding light. Embracing these values and principles, I find comfort in the Scout's motto, "Do a good turn daily." It serves as a constant reminder of the moral and ethical framework I hold dear, and the responsibility I carry in my daily actions, both in Scouting and in life.
Vision for the Future:
Looking forward to my life at 30 or 40, I envision assuming a prominent role in my community and church, drawing on my extensive experience in Scouting to guide and mentor others. Through the cultivation of a culture of service and mutual value, I aim to inspire individuals to actively contribute to society and create a positive impact on the lives of those around them. Deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and unity, I seek to play a vital part in nurturing a sense of togetherness, providing platforms for personal and collective growth, and promoting collaboration and support to achieve shared goals and aspirations.
Driven by my unwavering faith-based convictions, I am impassioned about engaging in advocacy and outreach initiatives that address pressing social issues and promote ethical values within my community and beyond. Advocating for justice, compassion, and equality, my goal is to work toward the betterment of society and the advancement of God's kingdom on earth through tangible and impactful initiatives. Simultaneously, I am dedicated to pursuing continuous personal and professional development, integrating the values of dedication, perseverance, and lifelong learning into my career trajectory.
Beyond my community-focused endeavors, my unique personal aspirations revolve around the creation of thought-provoking content that challenges conventional perspectives. Fueled by my deep love for nature and the outdoors, I am committed to embarking on challenging wilderness expeditions that test my physical endurance and mental resilience, always approaching these adventures with the principle of prudence at the forefront. Moreover, I am motivated to initiate and lead philanthropic ventures that address societal inequalities and advocate for marginalized communities, with a vision to make a substantial and meaningful impact that empowers individuals on a large scale.
Despite any reservations I may have about traditional academic routes, I am resolute in my dedication to a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth. I envision taking on independent research projects that delve into the intricate intersection of philosophy, economics, and societal structures, aiming to present fresh insights and alternative perspectives that challenge existing paradigms and contribute to the ongoing evolution of human understanding. Leveraging my innate leadership abilities and strategic acumen, I am determined to establish innovative entrepreneurial ventures that integrate ethical business practices and contribute to community development, aspiring to leave behind a lasting legacy that reflects my values and fosters a harmonious balance between economic success and collective well-being.
.png)