Our Scout salute and handshake are ancient signs of bravery
and respect. During the colonial period of our country, many
men carried weapons for protection.
Sometimes when they met one another, there was an uneasy
moment as each man watched the others right hand. If it went
to his sword or his gun, there might be a fight. but if it
went to his hat, it was a salute of friendship and respect.
The left handshake comes to us from the Ashanti warriors
whom Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, knew almost
100 years ago in West Africa. He saluted them with his right
hand, but the Ashanti chiefs offered their left hands and
said, "In our land only the bravest of the brave shake hands
with the left hand, because to do so we must drop our
shields and our protection."
The Ashanti's knew of Baden-Powell's bravery because they
had fought against him and with him, and they were proud to
offer the left hand of bravery.
When you use the Scout salute and handshake, remember that
they are signs of respect and courage.
The left hand is also closer to the heart...
