Baden Powell : Attention and confidence
Lord Robert Powell of Gilwell, BP, as everyone will call him, the tireless founder of scouting, was a stocky man, ginger haired, strong, ever sprightly, an excellent horseman, a fine shot, a great hunter, a tough rambler and good sailor. His clear grey-blue eyes now surprise with their candour, now impress with their vigor but always cheer up with the confidence they show off !
A universalist mind
His talents are manifold and much appreciated : He is an efficient mummer and a fanciful actor, keen on disguises, he is good at drawing and paints watercoulours, he sings, plays the piano, the violin, the horn or the bugle. On boats or in garrisons he is the one who will enliven all parties.
He leads a moderate and simple life, taking short rests, reading, writing to countless correspondants, editing articles and ever observing nature and men. He loves to discover, to listen, he hoards experience , memories and knowledge !
Scouting will bear the mark of his character : his thinking is factual, he knows how to organize and always supports his expression with striking instances and anecdotes. But he refuses abstract theories, he is pragmatic, tolerant, with much common sense and humour. A universalist mind, he is passionately fond of the people, languages, manners of the countries he lives in. His career allowed him to know how men can give their very best with goodwill and patience.
Simplicity and sense of humour
Still he would have resented such praise for what he likes above all is simplicity, measure, reserve. He unselfishly welcomes glory, honours or the enthusiasm of scouts with the true modest spirit he derives from his sense of humour and his knowledge of the world.
Neither a genius nor a super hero, BP believes that all men can promote a worldwide brotherhood and thus endeavours with that aim. Before he dies he writes : « I believe that God put us in this jolly world to be happy and enjoy life... But the real way to get happiness is by giving out happiness to other people...Try and leave this world (after rendering it) a little better than you found it... »
Michel Seyrat
Trad. Guy Vergnes