Bright Ideas - Celebrations

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Legend of the Toadstool (for Brownies)

Many years ago, Lord Baden-Powell suggested the name “Brownies” for the younger girls in the Girl Guide movement.

He wanted the Brownies to have a Totem in which they could hide their pack’s secrets – something that could be used at every Brownie meeting in the centre of the Brownie ring.

He chose the Toadstool with its large cap and strong stem. We think he had a very special reason for his choice. We would like to tell you what we think the reason was:

First, our Chief laid out the plans for his ground work.
(This is the grass.)

Upon this he put a firm foundation which is our Promise and Law.
(This is the stem.)

Our Chief know that if we kept our Promise and Law we would wear a crown of joy and happiness.
(The cap of the Toadstool).

He also knew that we would acquire wisdom and knowledge from the wise owl that sits on the toadstool.
(This is the Owl.)

When we have kept our Promise and Law and have gained wisdom, we are ready to lend a hand to help others. As we help others and spread joy and happiness (good turns), beautiful blossoms of friendship grow in our Magic Garden .

The Brownie who can do all this may dance around the Toadstool in the Brownie Ring, wearing the Brownie smile. She may see herself in the magic pool at the side of the Toadstool.

The legend of the Toadstool could be adapted to use as an enrollment ceremony.

Each circle leader could play a role with a narrator or each Brownie could read what each part is used for.

Submitted by Joan Boone, Bridgewater
Taken from the Nova Scotia Bulletin

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Girl Guides of Canada-Guides du Canada Vision, Mission, Values, Promise and Law