Ceremonies Discussions - Girl Scouts Volunteer Central2024-03-28T16:26:34Zhttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/group/ceremonies/forum?feed=yes&xn_auth=noFree Certificates to Downloadtag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2013-06-20:6171239:Topic:409692013-06-20T00:12:35.361ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
<p><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">FREE<br></br>CERTIFICATES TO DOWNLOAD…</span></p>
<p><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">FREE<br/>CERTIFICATES TO DOWNLOAD</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><a style="word-spacing: 0px; cursor: pointer;" href="http://www.freeprintablecertificates.net/category/scouting" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #3b5998; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://www.freeprintablecertificates.net/category/scouting</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/></span><a style="word-spacing: 0px; cursor: pointer;" href="http://www.angelfire.com/tx/scout21/awardindex.html" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #3b5998; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://www.angelfire.com/tx/scout21/awardindex.html</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/></span><a style="word-spacing: 0px; cursor: pointer;" href="http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=Girl+Scout+Participation+Certificates&id=2250573954B0C171779876EB8FC94F83333400A5&FORM=IQFRBA" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #3b5998; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=Girl+Scout+Participation+Certificates&id=2250573954B0C171779876EB8FC94F83333400A5&FORM=IQFRBA</span></a></span></p> BRIDGING POEMtag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2013-05-24:6171239:Topic:406672013-05-24T22:25:14.795ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
<p><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><br></br></span></p>
<p><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><br/></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><span style="background: white;"><span style="word-spacing: 0px;">Author unknown,<br/>updated by Carol Lee Spages</span></span><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><span style="background: white;"><span style="word-spacing: 0px;">From Girl Scout<br/>Daisies dressed in blue</span></span><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><span style="background: white;"><span style="word-spacing: 0px;">Where everything<br/>is fresh and new,</span></span><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><span style="background: white;"><span style="word-spacing: 0px;">We learn our Promise<br/>and our Law</span></span><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><span style="background: white;"><span style="word-spacing: 0px;">And grow strong<br/>as we grow tall.</span></span><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><br style="word-spacing: 0px;"/><br/><span class="textexposedshow"><span style="background: white;"><span style="word-spacing: 0px;">As Girl Scout Brownies we are eager to learn,</span></span><span style="background: white;"><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">With journeys to follow and badges to earn.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">We make the world a better place</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">With big Brownie smiles upon our face.</span><br/><br/><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">In Girl Scout Juniors, we can earn the Bronze,</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Exploring our community and beyond.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">In a circle of friendship, hand in hand.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">We're helping people wherever we can.</span><br/><br/><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">In Girl Scouts Cadettes we can really soar,</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Destinations have now opened their door.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">The Silver Award is ours to achieve</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">There are places to go and lots to see.</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><br/><br/><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Girl Scout Seniors have become more bold.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Some of us will earn the Gold.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">With leadership experience burning bright</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">We always want to do what's right.</span><br/><br/><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Girl Scout Ambassadors are at the top.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Our exciting adventures will never stop.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">As advocates we take the lead</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">The Promise and Law we will always heed.</span><br/><br/><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Little girls into women grow,</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Sharing with others all they know.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">Girl Scout adults are there to lead</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">And lend a hand where there's a need.</span><br/><br/><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">From level to level, step by step</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">With sister Girl Scouts, our futures we prep.</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">We meet the challenges each level brings,</span><br/><br/><span class="textexposedshow">And then we're on to bigger things.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p></p> US FLAG RETIREMENT CEREMONYtag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2013-05-24:6171239:Topic:408512013-05-24T22:14:56.796ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
<p></p>
<p><br></br> One person reads the following as guard performs instructions in parenthesis. A wire rack is placed above fire so that parts of flag will not touch ground when placed over fire.<br></br> <br></br> Color guard consists of seven people: one leader and six guards. The color guard led by the seventh person advances with the fully out-stretched flag held at arm's length over their heads. When the color guard comes to a halt in front of the fireplace, the flag is lowered to shoulder…</p>
<p></p>
<p><br/> One person reads the following as guard performs instructions in parenthesis. A wire rack is placed above fire so that parts of flag will not touch ground when placed over fire.<br/> <br/> Color guard consists of seven people: one leader and six guards. The color guard led by the seventh person advances with the fully out-stretched flag held at arm's length over their heads. When the color guard comes to a halt in front of the fireplace, the flag is lowered to shoulder height.<br/><br/>#1 G.S. Our Nation's Flag represents a living country. It is considered a living thing. Our duty, then, is to pay proper respect to this retiring flag by burning it in a dignified manner.<br/><br/>#2 G.S. (On the word "death" flag is lowered to lower arm length.)<br/>In death, as in life, the worn out flag should not touch the ground but should be burned on a rack. As the flag begins to burn, the assembled are called to attention, and offer the honor of a parting salute to the flag as it burns.<br/><br/>#3 G.S. The actual disposal of the flag begins with the separation of the blue field from the rest of the flag. (Guard on right, holding blue field, starts to cut out blue field.) The blue field represents justice like the eternal blue of the star filled heavens. Each star represents a state, and without this blue section it is impossible to have a flag. As we cut this field, all honors are given our flag.<br/>(Place blue field, folded in a triangle, over left arm of girl standing at fireplace.)<br/><br/>#4 G.S. (As reading continues, cut white and red stripes and place over right arm.) The white of the flag is for purity, cleanliness, of purpose - of word or deed - its red is the life blood of brave men and women ready to die, or to worthily live for their country.<br/>(Continue cutting 2 strips at a time until all are done.)<br/><br/>#5 G.S. (Cutter advances, takes stripes and lays them over wire.) As the stripes burn, shall we all join in and sing one verse of "America the Beautiful."<br/><br/>(Pause until stripes are burned.)<br/><br/>#6 G.S. As the stars burn, shall we all join in and sing "My Country 'Tis of Thee." (Cutter advances, takes blue field and lays it over wire. Pause until it is burned.)<br/><br/>#7 G.S. Now the flag has burned down to ashes. These ashes will be scattered so that the four winds can carry them over the land for which the American flag stands.<br/><br/>#8 G.S. We will all unite in singing "Star Spangled Banner."<br/><br/>#9 G.S. Color Guard retire. (Guard steps one step away from center. Leader passes between two rows of guards followed by cutter and partner, etc., last two simply turning and following. Later, when ashes are cold, take some, form circle, place pinch of ashes on open hand of four girls, one facing North, one facing South, one facing East, one facing West. On signal, have them blow ashes off their hand in each of four directions.)</p>
<p>__._,_.___</p> CEREMONIES AND CELEBRATIONStag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2012-12-14:6171239:Topic:385142012-12-14T04:01:19.391ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
<p class="p22">Ceremonies in Girl Scouting are used to celebrate special occasions, to recognize accomplishments, or simply to begin or end a meeting. Ceremonies also provide a means of expressing feelings and values of friendship, patriotism, service, beliefs and so forth.</p>
<p>A ceremony may be informal, taking only a few minutes to prepare or, it may be of a more formal nature, requiring advance preparation.</p>
<p>Girls may decide to have ceremonies for a number of occasions throughout…</p>
<p class="p22">Ceremonies in Girl Scouting are used to celebrate special occasions, to recognize accomplishments, or simply to begin or end a meeting. Ceremonies also provide a means of expressing feelings and values of friendship, patriotism, service, beliefs and so forth.</p>
<p>A ceremony may be informal, taking only a few minutes to prepare or, it may be of a more formal nature, requiring advance preparation.</p>
<p>Girls may decide to have ceremonies for a number of occasions throughout the year. In addition to those listed here, ceremonies are often used for a tree planting, making a presentation to a sponsor, thanking Troop Committee members or recognizing a special day like United Nations Day, etc.</p>
<p>Celebrating important events together helps bind girls of different backgrounds together into a feeling of sisterhood. It becomes a special time in their lives for reflection on the "oneness" of being a Girl Scout and a member of the largest girls' organization in the world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><u>PLANNING CEREMONIES</u></p>
<p></p>
<p><b> </b>Girl-planning is one of the principle ways in which leaders work with girls. Leaders need to recognize this method and solicit ideas from the girls to incorporate in the program. Even the smallest Daisy Girl Scout can contribute if given choices from which to choose.</p>
<p>As the leader, you will have to give many suggestions and much help in planning at the beginning. After girls have experienced a few ceremonies and see what can be included, they will begin to have ideas of their own.</p>
<p>Work with a committee, a patrol or the Court of Honor. Explain the purpose of the ceremony and have the girls talk about appropriate behavior during an activity. Discuss the form of the ceremony using questions to help make a plan.</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p23" align="center"></p>
<p class="p0">There is no one way to plan a ceremony or celebration. However, you should recognize the difference between the two.</p>
<p>A <i><u>ceremony</u></i> can be an observance of tradition with a symbolic meaning, an expression of deep feeling or conviction and a means of stressing beauty and instilling ideas. It should be simple and dignified, appropriate to the occasion and easily understood by the girls who take part in it. It should never be too sentimental or solemn.</p>
<p>A <i><u>celebration</u></i> is a time for sharing such things as sisterhood, fun, food, dances, songs, talents, etc. over a longer period of time than that given to a ceremony. An example would be an international celebration in observance of World Thinking Day. It could include customs, food, songs and dances from other countries. A ceremony can be part of a celebration.</p>
<p></p>
<p> Girl Scout ceremonies are not required to follow a set procedure but may open, carry out the purpose, and close in a number of ways. The ages of the girls, the season, location, and the purpose of the ceremony will help determine what goes into the ceremony. A group may build up a repertory of songs and collect a file of poems, readings and quotations to be used in ceremonies.</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p25">Following are some ideas that might be part of a ceremony:</p>
<p></p>
<p>Girl Scout Promise and Law</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p27">Reading original words written by girls for the occasion</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">Poems - done as choral reading or read by individuals</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">Songs - sung by the entire group, by a special chorus,</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26"> or hummed in the background</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p27">Quotations and readings</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p27">Candle lighting</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p27">Flag ceremony</p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23">Some ceremonies, such as an opening or closing of a meeting, require preparation only by the persons leading them. The leader of the ceremony can give the Girl Scout quiet sign to get the attention of the troop then give any direction necessary, asking the troop to sing or take part in other ways.</p>
<p></p>
<p> Other ceremonies require preparation by the troop. The entire troop may need to learn a particular song. Groups and individuals such as a choral reading group, readers, and the color guard must practice their parts. The ceremony may lose its effectiveness, however, if it is rehearsed "word for word".</p>
<p></p>
<p> You can help the girls gain confidence by having them walk through the mechanics once or twice.</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p23">Each girl should know the order of events and exactly what she is to do all the way through. For example:</p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p26">- Will everyone walk together?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- Does she stand or sit during ceremony?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- What movement occurs during ceremony?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- Does she come up front for her part of the ceremony?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- What is the order of events and what part does she follow?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- How does the group disperse at the end?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- What songs, poems, and quotations should we include?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- How will we end the ceremony?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- Who will do each part? An individual? A group?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- What do we need? Candles? Decorations?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- Who will bring them?</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p26">- Who will start the songs?</p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23">Parts of the ceremony may be announced as it goes along, or the troop may prefer to have one part follow another with no announcements. If a girl forgets her cue, or does her part out of order, you can cue in the next part with a few simple words such as, "Jane will now read a poem on friendship."</p>
<p></p>
<p class="p23">Make a final check just before the ceremony to be sure everything is in place and ready to use: pins ready to present, lists of names for insignia presentation, candles and matches ready, campfire laid with a pail of water nearby, etc. Check girls (and yourself) to see that everyone is a neat as possible. </p>
<p> </p>
<p></p>
<p><u>PREPARING FOR GUESTS</u></p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23">Occasionally the troop invites guests to a ceremony or celebration. These may be family, troop committee, another troop, program consultants, or members of sponsoring groups.</p>
<p></p>
<p> When possible, have girls arrive at least a half hour before guests so that they can arrange the room and make preparations. Be sure some girls are assigned as hostesses.</p>
<p></p>
<p> You, or one of the girls, can begin with a short greeting and an explanation of the purpose of the ceremony. Give guests directions at the appropriate time if they are to participate in a flag ceremony. If you use a horseshoe formation, have the opening toward the audience.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p29"><u>SUGGESTED DATES AND OCCASIONS</u></p>
<p></p>
<p><b> </b>Note: Many ceremonies and celebrations suggest the lighting of candles. For our younger Girl Scouts, lighting candles can be dangerous. Make paper candles. Mount them on a poster. To "light" the candle, have the girls tape a paper flame in place. Flashlights work well, too. If older girls are going to be holding candles, be sure there are collars of foil or heavy paper around them to catch the wax drips. Hot wax burns.</p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>lNVESTITURE</b> - a ceremony to welcome new girls and adults into the Girl Scouting program. It is held anytime a person joins the Movement as a <i>new</i> member. Note: A person is invested only <i>once</i> in their lifetime.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>REDEDICATION</b> - a ceremony for girls and adults who have already been invested at some time in their life. It is a time for them to reaffirm their belief in the Promise and Law and to reflect upon the meaning of Girl Scouting in their lives. It is usually held at the beginning of each Girl Scout year.</p>
<p class="p23">Note: If a person rejoins the Movement after a period of absence, they are welcomed back at a rededication ceremony.</p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>FOUNDER'S DAY</b> (Juliette Low's Birthday) - a ceremony and/or celebration held on or about October 31st of each year. It is a program to recognize the important role that Juliette Gordon Low played in the development of the Girl Scouting program in the U.S.</p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>PATROL LEADER INSTALLATION</b> - a ceremony at which time patrol leaders receive the double gold cords of their position. It is held each time new patrol leaders are selected.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>TROOP BIRTHDAY PARTY</b> - a ceremony and/or celebration recognizing the anniversary date of the beginning of the troop.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>WORLD THINKING DAY</b> - a ceremony and/or celebration held on or about February 22nd of each year. New members can receive the World Trefoil Pin and all Girl Scouts observe the international aspects of the Movement.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>GIRL SCOUT'S BIRTHDAY</b> - a ceremony and/or celebration to mark the beginning of Girl Scouting in the United States - March 12, 1912.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>GIRL SCOUT SUNDAY/SABBATH</b> - a ceremony held each year during Girl Scout Week…the week of March 12<sup>th</sup>. It is a time for Girl Scouts to reflect upon the importance of the words, "to serve God", in the Girl Scout Promise. Some religions observe Girl Scout Sunday on the Sunday beginning GS Week while other religions observe the Girl Scout Sabbath on the Saturday ending Girl Scout week. People of the Jewish faith also call it Shabbat.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>GIRL SCOUT WEEK</b> - ceremonies and celebrations are held throughout the week of March 12th each year.</p>
<p class="p23"> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>COURT OF AWARDS</b> - a ceremony to recognize the achievements of the Girl Scouts. It is on this occasion that girls receive the insignia they have earned. This ceremony can be held any time during the Girl Scouting year. At the last Court of Awards of the year, members can receive their membership stars.</p>
<p> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>FLY-UP</b> - a ceremony held at the end of the Girl Scouting year for Brownie Girl Scouts bridging into Junior Girl Scouts. It is at this time the girls receive their Brownie Girl Scout wings.</p>
<p class="p0"> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>BRIDGING</b> - a ceremony held for any Girl Scout moving up to a new level in the program. Daisy Girl Scouts to Brownie Girl Scouts, Brownie Girl Scouts to Junior Girl Scouts, and Junior Girl Scouts to Girls Scouts 11 – 17.</p>
<p class="p0"> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>CAMPFIRE</b> - a ceremony and/or celebration held around a fire. The meaning of a campfire lies in the spirit of the program. It can unlock the spirit of mystery, romance, sisterhood, humor, and magic within the heart of each participant.</p>
<p class="p0"> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>ADULT RECOGNITION</b> - an occasion at any time of the year when adults are recognized for their service to Girl Scouting.</p>
<p class="p0"> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>GIRL SCOUT'S OWN</b> - not a ceremony in the strict sense of the word but a time for Girl Scouts to reflect upon their feelings about Girl Scouting and the world around them. It is a solemn time given over to the girls themselves to create a moment of their very own. A Girl Scouts' Own can be held at any time and can take place at a troop meeting, an inter-troop gathering or camp.</p>
<p class="p31"><b> </b></p>
<p class="p31"><b>OPENING</b> - a ceremony to begin a meeting or event.</p>
<p class="p31"> </p>
<p class="p31"><b>CLOSING</b> - a ceremony to end a meeting or event.</p>
<p class="p23"> </p>
<p class="p23"><b>FLAG</b> - a ceremony to recognize our allegiance to our nation or discard a worn flag. A flag ceremony can be held as part of a celebration. It can also be used to open a troop meeting as well as on a separate occasion.</p>
<p class="p23"> </p>
<p></p> Wishing Pot Ceremonytag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2012-03-23:6171239:Topic:340042012-03-23T04:19:08.524ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
<p>Wishing Pot Ceremony</p>
<p>A wishing pot ceremony is an indoor version of wishes thrown into a campfire. We use our troop's Dutch oven for the wishing pot, but any container that is fireproof and plenty big enough to hold all the wishes would be okay. Do be careful to set it on a heat-proof surface. :)</p>
<p>Everyone is given a small piece of paper and a pencil, and asked to write down her wish. This can be a wish for someone who is leaving, a wish for her own future, a wish for the troop.…</p>
<p>Wishing Pot Ceremony</p>
<p>A wishing pot ceremony is an indoor version of wishes thrown into a campfire. We use our troop's Dutch oven for the wishing pot, but any container that is fireproof and plenty big enough to hold all the wishes would be okay. Do be careful to set it on a heat-proof surface. :)</p>
<p>Everyone is given a small piece of paper and a pencil, and asked to write down her wish. This can be a wish for someone who is leaving, a wish for her own future, a wish for the troop. Wishes are private. No one knows the wish except the person who writes it. When a girl is through writing, she folds her paper to seal in the wish.</p>
<p>The wishes are collected and placed in the pot, or each girl comes to the pot and throws in her wish. After the wishes are collected, everyone is told that she must concentrate on her wish, in absolute silence, from the time the fire is lit until it goes out. Then the fire is lit. (It is effective, but not necessary, to turn out the lights at this point.)</p>
<p>After the fire goes out, the leader can say something appropriate such as "Believing in our wishes makes them come true" or "A wish is a prayer. The smoke carries our prayers to God." Then everyone gathers round the pot for a final circle and friendship squeeze.</p>
<p>This was a very special send-off for our troop member who is moving. Almost everyone cried. We have also done this very effectively in the past at a slumber party in January to begin the new year. It could probably be done equally well in the fall when school starts again, or in the spring when girls who won't be meeting over the summer will be separating for three months.</p>
<p>Variations are to throw wishes into a campfire (when leader secretly adds a handful of coffee creamer to make a "poof" or sugar to create colored flames) or to make wish boats (candle on a small piece of wood) to float out to sea or across a lake. With the wish boats, girls watch them silently until the last flame goes out. Wish boats, which were a tradition at one summer camp where I worked as a counselor in the 1960's, are now discouraged because of environmental concerns.</p>
<p>For Thinking Day two years ago, we did a different version. Instead of using a pot, we gave everyone a votive candle in a baby food jar. (At the Dollar Tree store here, we can buy a box of ten "tea light" candles for a dollar.) We then sat on the floor in a circle, turned out all the lights, and passed a lighter from person to person. Each person said, "My wish for Girl Scouts and Girl Guides everywhere is . . ." and lit her candle. When all the candles were burning, we asked the girls to concentrate on their wishes in silence for a few minutes and then blow out the candles. After blowing out the candles, we stood up and did our final circle and friendship squeeze.</p>
<p>Hope this helps.</p>
<p>Jane Schuler</p>
<p>Cadette Troop 5</p>
<p>Knoxville, TN</p> Girl Scout Cadencetag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2011-07-14:6171239:Topic:182292011-07-14T06:50:01.667ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
I don’t know, but I’ve been told:<br />
<br />
All Girl Scouts are good as gold!<br />
<br />
I am one, and say it’s true,<br />
<br />
Girl Scouting’s great for me and you!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus: Sound off: 1- 2!<br />
Sound off: 3 - 4!<br />
Bring it on down, now: 1- 2 - 3 - 4!<br />
<br />
1 - 2! 3 - 4!<br />
<br />
Daisies have a disc of blue,<br />
They are Girl Scouts so brand new.<br />
They are cute and they are sweet<br />
Girl Scout Daisies - fun to meet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Brownies have a disc of green<br />
They are second on the scene.<br />
They wear a uniform that's brown,<br />
Their smile song can…
I don’t know, but I’ve been told:<br />
<br />
All Girl Scouts are good as gold!<br />
<br />
I am one, and say it’s true,<br />
<br />
Girl Scouting’s great for me and you!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus: Sound off: 1- 2!<br />
Sound off: 3 - 4!<br />
Bring it on down, now: 1- 2 - 3 - 4!<br />
<br />
1 - 2! 3 - 4!<br />
<br />
Daisies have a disc of blue,<br />
They are Girl Scouts so brand new.<br />
They are cute and they are sweet<br />
Girl Scout Daisies - fun to meet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Brownies have a disc of green<br />
They are second on the scene.<br />
They wear a uniform that's brown,<br />
Their smile song can turn a frown.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Junior level is the next,<br />
A yellow disk is on their vest.<br />
They earn their badges one by one.<br />
<br />
The Bronze Award they can get done.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Girl Scout Cadettes have a lot to learn.<br />
<br />
The Silver Award is theirs to earn.<br />
<br />
A white disc is the one they wear<br />
The name Girl Scout they’re proud to share.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Senior discs are red, I know.<br />
They are Girl Scouts on the go.<br />
<br />
They can earn the treasured Gold<br />
<br />
It's quite an honor, I am told.<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Ambassadors' discs are very dark blue<br />
<br />
They are Girl Scouts through and through.<br />
<br />
Their future's looking very bright.<br />
<br />
These Girl Scouts are out of sight!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Chorus<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Leaders have no discs at all<br />
They come all sizes, big and small.<br />
They share their time and talents too.<br />
They make Girl Scouting great for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bridging Poem<br />
<br />
Author unknown, updated by Carol Lee Spages<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
From Girl Scout Daisies dressed in blue<br />
Where everything is fresh and new,<br />
We learn our Promise and our Law<br />
And grow strong as we grow tall.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As Girl Scout Brownies we are eager to learn,<br />
With journeys to follow and Try-its to earn.<br />
We make the world a better place<br />
With big Brownie smiles upon our face.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In Girl Scout Juniors, we venture on,<br />
Exploring our community and beyond.<br />
In a circle of friendship, hand in hand.<br />
We're helping people wherever we can.<br />
<br />
In Girl Scouts Cadettes we can really soar,<br />
<br />
Destinations have now opened their door.<br />
The Silver Award is ours to achieve<br />
<br />
There are places to go and lots to see.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Girl Scout Seniors have become more bold.<br />
<br />
Some of us will earn the Gold.<br />
<br />
With leadership experience burning bright<br />
<br />
We always want to do what's right.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Girl Scout Ambassadors are at the top.<br />
<br />
Our exciting adventures will never stop.<br />
<br />
As advocates we take the lead<br />
<br />
The Promise and Law we will always heed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Little girls into women grow,<br />
Sharing with others all they know.<br />
Girl Scout adults are there to lead<br />
And lend a hand where there's a need.<br />
<br />
From level to level, step by step<br />
With sister Girl Scouts, our futures we prep.<br />
<br />
We meet the challenges each level brings,<br />
And then we're on to bigger things. Our Girl Scout Worldtag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2011-07-14:6171239:Topic:182272011-07-14T06:46:25.043ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
Our Girl Scout World<br />
<br />
<br />
Supplies: 5 blue candles<br />
<br />
1 large green candle<br />
<br />
3 white candles<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#1 GS: I light this candle for the flame of sisterhood that burns in the heart of every Girl Scout. (light large green candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#2 G S: These three candles represent the three parts of the Girl Scout Promise.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#3 GS: On my honor I will try to serve God and my country. (light white candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#4 GS: To help people at all times. (light white candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#5 GS: And to live by the Girl Scout Law. (light…
Our Girl Scout World<br />
<br />
<br />
Supplies: 5 blue candles<br />
<br />
1 large green candle<br />
<br />
3 white candles<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#1 GS: I light this candle for the flame of sisterhood that burns in the heart of every Girl Scout. (light large green candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#2 G S: These three candles represent the three parts of the Girl Scout Promise.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#3 GS: On my honor I will try to serve God and my country. (light white candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#4 GS: To help people at all times. (light white candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#5 GS: And to live by the Girl Scout Law. (light white candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#6 GS: The blue candles stand for areas of interest in Girl Scouting.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Note: Repeat each verse and light the candles one at a time. After each, have the girls describe the activities in that interest area in which they participated. If the members have earned awards in a particular area, present them after it has been mentioned.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#7 GS: A world full of art is a bright fun place.<br />
<br />
We can sing, try a dance, even paint a face.<br />
<br />
Things to carve, things to print, we can weave, we can tint.<br />
<br />
Art is part of our big world. (light blue candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#8 GS: It's people who make this big world go round.<br />
<br />
Their skins are light, dark, and golden brown,<br />
<br />
'Tho we're not just the same, understanding is our aim.<br />
<br />
People share our Girl Scout world. (light blue candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#9 GS: The out-of-doors has a place for all.<br />
<br />
Pitch a tent, hike a hill, heed the campfire's call.<br />
<br />
Learn to live with concern and to share what we learn.<br />
<br />
We protect our big bright world. (light blue candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#1O GS: We can run, hop, skip, jump and throw a ball,<br />
<br />
Learn to eat what is good so we can grow up tall.<br />
<br />
With well-being in mind, we leave troubles behind.<br />
<br />
We will be safe in our world. (light blue candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#11 GS: Exploring our world is so much fun.<br />
<br />
Science, math, fix a leak, see how engines run.<br />
<br />
Fly a plane in the sky, learn to find how and why.<br />
<br />
We discover our big world. (light blue candle)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LEADER: You should be proud of your accomplishments. Congratulations!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(Close the ceremony with an appropriate song and blow out candles.) Junior Bridging Ceremonytag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2011-07-14:6171239:Topic:181212011-07-14T06:37:55.832ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
Girl Scout Junior to Cadette Bridging Ceremony<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The Key to the Future<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Supplies: a key for each Girl Scout - could be cut from paper OR buy uncut keys from a store - attach to a daisy flower's stem and/or ribbon.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Ceremony: * advisor speaking<br />
<br />
# girls' response<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* Have you come here tonight (today) with a desire to be bridge to Girl Scout Cadettes?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
# Yes, we have.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* Do you understand that by entering Girl Scout Cadettes you are continuing in a sisterhood in which you will be…
Girl Scout Junior to Cadette Bridging Ceremony<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The Key to the Future<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Supplies: a key for each Girl Scout - could be cut from paper OR buy uncut keys from a store - attach to a daisy flower's stem and/or ribbon.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Ceremony: * advisor speaking<br />
<br />
# girls' response<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* Have you come here tonight (today) with a desire to be bridge to Girl Scout Cadettes?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
# Yes, we have.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* Do you understand that by entering Girl Scout Cadettes you are continuing in a sisterhood in which you will be expected to live your life by the values in the Girl Scout Promise and Law ?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
# We do.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* You now will take on more responsibility for your program design. You will work in partnership with your advisor to plan your own path through the program. Are you prepared to be an active participant in this partnership?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
# We are.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* Are you ready to take the lead to make new choices for your life? Are you ready to take on new challenges, follow new journeys and look wide at life and then look wider still?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
# We are.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* Understanding these things then, I ask you to see your responsibilities and endeavors in Girl Scouting, not from a girl’s point of view, but that of young leaders. Will you do this?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
# We will.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
* I trust you, on your honor, to do your best to keep these promises. Do your best to keep your honor bright and the spirit of Girl Scouting in your heart. (pause) Accept these keys as symbols of your advancement into Girl Scout Cadettes. Use them to unlock all the adventures and opportunities available to you at this new level. (present keys) Cadette Bridging Ceremonytag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2011-07-14:6171239:Topic:185142011-07-14T06:29:15.466ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
Girl Scout Cadette Bridging Ceremony<br />
<br />
Carol Lee Spages<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Equipment: I. large sheet of poster board.<br />
<br />
2. roots, stem, leaves, and daisy bud cut from colored paper and backed with tape.<br />
<br />
Ceremony:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#1 G.S.: Just as a root anchors a plant, so do Girl Scout Daisies provide the base for the Girl Scout program. Let these roots represent Daisies...the beginning of the journey. (affix roots)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#2 G.S.: In Girl Scout Brownies, girls continue their development as Girl Scouts. This stem reminds us of…
Girl Scout Cadette Bridging Ceremony<br />
<br />
Carol Lee Spages<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Equipment: I. large sheet of poster board.<br />
<br />
2. roots, stem, leaves, and daisy bud cut from colored paper and backed with tape.<br />
<br />
Ceremony:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#1 G.S.: Just as a root anchors a plant, so do Girl Scout Daisies provide the base for the Girl Scout program. Let these roots represent Daisies...the beginning of the journey. (affix roots)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#2 G.S.: In Girl Scout Brownies, girls continue their development as Girl Scouts. This stem reminds us of that process. Just as a stem rises up to seek new heights, so do Girl Scout Brownies continue their adventure in Girl Scouting along with adults who help guide them in the right direction. (affix stem)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
#3 G.S.: Just as leaves unfold and seek energy, so do Girl Scout Juniors encourage girls to emerge in a program where they can seek out new life-enriching adventures. (affix leaves)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LEADER: You are now ready to bridge to Girl Scout Cadettes. You will have the opportunity to create your own program. You will be challenged to follow new journeys and earn the Leader in Action award. As Girl Scout Cadettes, you will have the opportunity to earn, more challenging awards, explore career options, hone your leadership skills, and participate in destinations. Some of you may choose to earn the Girl Scout Silver Award.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Our plant is not complete. It needs a bud. Girl Scout Cadettes are the buds of the plant. Through continued growth and development, you can become the blossom of Girl Scouting...Girl Scout Seniors. From those blossoms will come the seeds of our future, Girl Scout Ambassadors. Some day you could be a seed for the future of Girl Scouting. Let this bud represent the full potential of Girl Scouting in your life as a new Girl Scout Cadette. (affix bud)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(Girls repeat the Promise, receive a daisy flower and are welcomed into<br />
<br />
Girl Scout Cadettes.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Note: If the girls have completed the Bridging Award,<br />
<br />
present it to them at this time. Bridging Ideastag:gsvolunteercentral.ning.com,2011-06-03:6171239:Topic:155162011-06-03T07:35:09.660ZCharlene Domschothttp://gsvolunteercentral.ning.com/profile/charlenedomschot
Bridge to Girl Scout Brownies<br />
<br />
(author unknown...revised by Carol Lee Spages)<br />
<br />
Girl Scout Daisies, cross the bridge,<br />
Your Daisy days are done.<br />
Come and join our Brownie ring...<br />
Find adventure and lots of fun.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bridge to Girl Scout Juniors<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(author unknown...revised by Carol Lee Spages)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LEADER READS:<br />
<br />
Two years have passed since you first stood<br />
By the magic pool and learned you could<br />
Do lots of things in a Girl Scout way<br />
And truly live by the words you say.<br />
<br />
Journeys and Try-Its have…
Bridge to Girl Scout Brownies<br />
<br />
(author unknown...revised by Carol Lee Spages)<br />
<br />
Girl Scout Daisies, cross the bridge,<br />
Your Daisy days are done.<br />
Come and join our Brownie ring...<br />
Find adventure and lots of fun.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bridge to Girl Scout Juniors<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(author unknown...revised by Carol Lee Spages)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
LEADER READS:<br />
<br />
Two years have passed since you first stood<br />
By the magic pool and learned you could<br />
Do lots of things in a Girl Scout way<br />
And truly live by the words you say.<br />
<br />
Journeys and Try-Its have become yours<br />
As you worked and played in and out doors.<br />
Being a Girl Scout Brownie has filled your hearts<br />
Broadened your sights and brought new starts.<br />
<br />
You committed to our Promise and showed respect,<br />
We learned working together is what to expect.<br />
So Girl Scout Brownies fly on and find<br />
That Girl Scout Juniors are true and kind.<br />
<br />
Now we give you Brownie wings,<br />
That you may fly to bigger things!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bridge to Girl Scout Cadettes<br />
<br />
(author unknown...revised by Carol Lee Spages)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When you were a Girl Scout Junior<br />
You learned a lot of things<br />
<br />
Through discover, connect, take action<br />
And the skills badges and service brings.<br />
<br />
Now you come to Girl Scout Cadettes<br />
<br />
Ready to take a greater part<br />
In Girl Scouting and your community,<br />
And this next step is just the start."<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bridge to Girl Scout Seniors poem<br />
<br />
(author unknown...revised by Carol Lee Spages)<br />
<br />
SPOKEN BY THE GIRLS:<br />
<br />
Take my hand in eagerness<br />
As Girl Scout Seniors we become<br />
We're proud to be bridging<br />
To earn the awards that can be done.<br />
<br />
Take my hand in thanking<br />
Our advisor and our guide<br />
With sincere appreciation<br />
For standing by our side.<br />
<br />
Take my hand in friendship<br />
I give to you this day<br />
Remember all the good times<br />
We had along the way.<br />
<br />
Take my hand for helping<br />
Other people that we know<br />
The more we give to others<br />
The more that we will grow.<br />
<br />
Take my hand in learning<br />
To camp on nature's ground<br />
Enjoying trails and campfires<br />
With new friends that we have found.<br />
<br />
Take my hand to follow new<br />
Girl Scouting journeys in our sight<br />
We'll join hands with each other<br />
And in friendship we'll unite.<br />
<br />
Take my hand in giving<br />
Our knowledge of Girl Scouts<br />
To girls we meet and talk to<br />
Who have so many doubts.<br />
<br />
(In unison):<br />
We give our hands in promise<br />
To hold our country dear<br />
And abide by the Girl Scout Law<br />
Each day throughout the year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Bridge to Girl Scout Adults<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(by Joan McEniry)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Spoken by Girl Scout Ambassadors bridging to adult Girl Scouts...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We are the present... and the future too.<br />
We turned our eyes to you to point the way.<br />
We learned to walk ourselves, against the day<br />
When you no longer lead us by the hand.<br />
You taught us the meaning we need<br />
For, soon, there will be those<br />
Whom we must lead<br />
In ways which you have shown.<br />
And, having taught us,<br />
Show us that you are not afraid for us to walk alone.<br />
You taught us to reach for the stars.<br />
To gather to ourselves the dreams<br />
That beckoned once to you.<br />
You taught us those things that we must know<br />
To make your dream, our dream come true!