2022-09 Trustworthy Steeplejacks

Two steeplejacks in England named Lewis and Jenkins, were mending a weather vane on a high steeple, 180 feet above the ground. To anchor the vane, melted lead had to be poured into its socket.

The scaffolding from which the men were working was not high enough to reach the socket, so Lewis climbed up on Jenkins’ shoulders. As he stood there, pouring the molten lead, a sudden gust of wind scattered a shower of the fiery liquid over Jenkins’ bare arms.

The slightest move on Jenkins' part would have sent his companion spinning to his death, 180 feet below. Jenkins set his teeth, and stood without a move until Lewis had completed the job and descended.

For the rest of his days, Jenkins had burn scars. Almost like bracelets on both arms.

Some days we are like Jenkins. We have others that rely on us to be dependable and accurate. You’ll find in the workplace that there are many people who are like Jenkins. Granted, we are not standing 180 feet in the air with a fellow employee on our shoulders pouring melted lead… but some of us may be pulling extra hours to complete a group project or to meet a deadline for a quarterly report.

Some days we are like Lewis. We have so much faith and trust in others that we will stand on their shoulders 180 feet up in the air to get the job done, because we know that they have our backs and will not let us down.

Whether you are like Lewis, or like Jenkins, both are great examples of how to live and practice the scout oath and law. Guaranteed there was a lot of Trustworthy going on as the two of them completed the job. Let us continue to do our part as we help other people while being Trustworthy, Loyal, and Brave.