Last autumn, my son stood under the warm October sun in his Cub Scouts uniform next to a table filled with an array of popcorn flavors his troop was selling. This was a familiar tradition, as the Scouts raised funds for their activities and necessary camping gear.
When we arrived at the convenience store where the troop was promoting their products, my son joined his friends. Their troop leader encouraged them to be polite and friendly while also advising against being overly aggressive in their sales approach.
As the afternoon progressed, it became clear that many customers at the store were annoyed by the boys in tan uniforms, who were collectively asking if anyone would like to support their cause. Many customers hurried past, trying to avoid the awkwardness of declining their requests. While this was disheartening, a few kind souls stopped to either buy popcorn or listen to the boys share their sales pitch.
However, one man made my blood boil. As he approached the table, he loudly declared his disdain for Cub Scouts and stated he would never part with his hard-earned money for their cause. He berated them for “begging” and suggested they find “real” activities, like sports. His rudeness was grating, and when he finished his tirade, he stormed off, leaving the boys stunned and hurt. To their credit, the boys remained composed and refrained from responding to his anger. I, however, felt a strong urge to confront that irritable man.
Here’s the thing: I share the common frustration with fundraising. I dislike being approached by family and friends for orders of cookies, candles, and other items. I often wish there was an easier way for sports teams and clubs to gather funds without needing to sell merchandise. But despite my disdain for the fundraising process, nothing frustrates me more than adults being rude to kids trying to support their activities.
There’s absolutely no reason for an adult to be unkind to a child standing outside a grocery store selling cookies for a Girl Scout troop or candy bars for their sports team. Kids today often lack the interpersonal skills previous generations developed, primarily due to technology and social media. They spend less time engaging face-to-face, and texting has largely replaced meaningful conversations. Fundraising in public gives children the opportunity to confront their fears of public speaking and learn essential social skills. The kids at those tables are mastering body language, teamwork, and the pride that comes from participating in a club. When an adult belittles a child who is trying to step out of their comfort zone, it can be truly disheartening.
Moreover, it’s not fair to blame the kids for fundraising. They don’t dictate their parents’ financial situations, nor do they set the costs for the activities they wish to engage in. Football equipment can be expensive, and weekend camping trips often strain family budgets, yet both experiences are invaluable for a child’s growth. Sometimes, that $10 you spend on popcorn or cookies can allow a city kid to experience a weekend in nature and learn vital survival skills. Adults must remember that dismissing the enthusiasm of eager children can have lasting impacts on their self-esteem.
Just after the unpleasant man left, another kind gentleman approached the table. He immediately reached for his wallet before he was even close enough to hear the boys. With a friendly smile, he asked each boy about the different popcorn options, listened attentively to their sales pitches, and made eye contact, complimenting their poise. He then pulled out $100 and purchased a large quantity of caramel popcorn, all while his wife playfully teased him about his diet. He smiled and said, “I was once a Scout, and I remember being the kid who couldn’t afford the trips. I make it a point to give back whenever I see Boy Scouts; that’s what community is all about.”
Yes, indeed. That’s the essence of kindness.
As he walked away, arms full of popcorn, one of the boys remarked that he aspired to be like that man when he grew up, which brought tears to my eyes. Kindness truly matters, even when you’re busy running errands.
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In summary, while we may not always want what kids are selling, it’s crucial to treat them with kindness and respect. They are learning valuable life skills, and our support can make a world of difference.