The other day, I found myself in an interesting discussion with a good friend. Both of us agreed that society needs an infusion of positive values ¬ sooner than later. We could not, however, agree on how to define those values. My friend questioned me as to "whose values?"

He raised a valid question. I have felt for some time that greater reliance on traditional values, from the board rooms of our nation to the ghettos of the poor, would help make this country a far better place. While the Supreme Court has ruled prayer out of the classrooms of public schools, the court did not rule out the reinforcement of values. Teachers are not prevented from teaching the right way to do things. To avoid dealing with value orientation on the grounds that society cannot agree on common values important to all of us, begs this important issue.

Where can we find values which will be accepted by most Americans? Obviously, our churches and temples are the reservoir for many of us to help in defining and reinforcing values. But, as a multifaceted religious community, it would be difficult for us to draw from one religion over another in setting a standard of values for the nation or any community. Besides, the United States Constitution clearly calls for the separation of church and state. However, there is one set of values which is common to all - without regard to religion, wealth, race or geography. Scouting can provide a common moral guide post.

Boy and Girl Scout units are found across the nation in every part of our society. Scouting instills team work, develops skills and encourages common values. Take a minute with me to examine just how common the Scouting values are in our society.

At the heart of Scouting is the concept of being honest. The Girl Scout's promise to "be honest" and the Boy Scout's promise to be "trustworthy" are profound in simplicity. One other area of Scouting law, if implemented by each of us every day, would make our communities and this world a much better place to live. Just think what it would be like if all of us were "courteous" and "friendly and considerate" each day of our lives. Wouldn't it be great if those words could be contagious and infect everything from the push and shove at a crowded event to the board room decisions of business. If we do not put more emphasis on positive values in our society, it will be impossible to turn around the helplessness in some of our communities.

You will not be sorry to have your family involved in Long Island Scouting ¬ particularly if you go along. As the participant in four overnight canoe trips on the Delaware River with my Boy Scout son, I can assure you of lasting memories.