by Mike Matzinger
Sometimes the biggest Scouting journeys begin with a challenge we are afraid to face.
For Chris Matthewson, that challenge was the water.
As a young Scout, Chris struggled with swimming. Deep water brought fear and anxiety, and the thought of earning the Swimming Merit Badge felt overwhelming. While others jumped in, Chris held onto the wall and wondered if he could overcome that fear.
But Scouting gave him the opportunity, support, and encouragement to grow.
Chris learned to swim. He earned his Swimming Merit Badge. Then he kept going.
He went on to earn BSA Lifeguard, serve as an Assistant Aquatics Director, teach Swimming and Lifesaving Merit Badges, work on National Staff at Florida Sea Base, and help lead high adventure programs where confidence and water skills are essential.
The Scout who once feared the deep end became someone who helped others overcome their own fears and even had the skills to save lives. Recently, while helping organize a swim test night, Chris was reminded of why strong aquatics programs matter.
“Swimming is a skill that every youth should try to learn. It can open up new worlds, erase fear and give confidence, and it can even save lives.”
Chris knows firsthand that Scouting is about more than earning badges. It’s about giving young people opportunities to face challenges, build confidence, and discover what they are capable of.
Think about the younger version of yourself. What fear did you overcome? What opportunity helped you grow?
For Chris, Scouting helped turn a fear of the water into a lifetime of adventure, leadership, and service.
What lasting impact that Scouting have on your life?
Scouting America | Prepared. For Life.™