From buying to selling to consuming, this time of year is dominated by Girl Scout Cookies. Whether someone buys 15 boxes of Samoas, or a girl earns prizes for her troop, Girl Scout Cookie Season is a joyous time for all. However, amidst all of the cookie hype, this time of year means something different for me as it forces me to reflect on my time as a Girl Scout.
Whenever I hear someone talk about how much they love Thin Mints, it makes me think about selling those Thin Mints 10 years ago as a junior. Or, I recall the camping trip I went on as a Brownie in the first grade. Or, I think about my countless service experiences from when I was an older Girl Scout.
Whatever the flashback is, I look back with the utmost gratitude. If it wasn't for Girl Scouts, I do not know where I would be today – as cliché as that may sound. I was a Girl Scout for 13 years of my life, all the way from kindergarten to when I graduated high school. I went through all of the motions, doing the most I could while in the organization. I was a Daisy who earned a patch just for doing an arts and crafts project, and I was an Ambassador who earned her Gold Award. Without Girl Scouts, I would never have had the courage to even consider organizing my own service project, never mind leading the project to success, so I could earn the highest award in scouting.
Being a Girl Scout taught me how to be confident, selfless and brave beyond belief. I was taught to always be conscious of my surroundings and give back to the community but also to have fun and take care of myself. In the end, your life comes down to you, so you must make the most of it. Without the help of the Girl Scouts, and the countless years my mom spent being my troop leader, I am not sure if I would have learned any of this. And I for sure would not be the person I am today.
So, whenever I hear someone talking about devouring Tagalongs, I think about those Tagalongs, too, because let’s face it, they are the absolute best. But, I also reflect on all of the fantastic things Girl Scouts has done for me. And how I would never wish for Girl Scouts to have not been a part of my life and a part of myself.
