Differences exist in thought and in sentiment

There has been a long running discussion on a Guiding group about the necessity of encouraging girls to attend church parade. Whether they should be encouraged or not, whether they should be rewarded or not, whether there should be a church connection or not, whether there should be any mention of religion at all or not.

It has been an emotive issue and the differences in opinion have been as far apart as you can imagine and anything in between.

It made me think about the Chief Scout's speech when he became 'Chief  Scout of all the World' at Olympia in 1920.

 "Brother Scouts,
I ask you to make a solemn choice.
Differences exist between the peoples of the world in thought and sentiment, just as they do in language and physique.
The war has taught us that if one nation tries to impose its particular will upon others, cruel reaction is bound to follow.
The Jamboree has taught us that if we exercise mutual forbearance and give-and-take, then there is sympathy and harmony.
If it be your will, let us go forth from here determined that we will develop among ourselves and our boys that comradeship, through the world-wide spirit of the Scout brotherhood, so that we may help to develop peace and happiness in the world and good will among men. Brother Scouts, answer me -- will you join in this endeavour?"

"Yes!" Shouted the Crowd

Mutual Forbearance, a really easy concept and yet so difficult to carry out when faced with a sea of contradicting opinions.

In only a small sea of faces, no two people will think exactly the same thoughts.  Unless they are Guiders and are faced with a huge plate of chocolate obviously - but that is a given.

Give and Take.

So simple and yet sometimes so very hard.