Your Toolbox

As leaders, Drill Instructors are asked to perform many tasks as part of a Pathfinder program. This may be in the form of other offices: counselors, instructors, etc. Whatever the role, there is always a goal... a "why" to your Pathfinder program. That why will change from club to club and conference to conference. But a general purpose is common to all Pathfinder programs: Lead young people to Christ, Provide an environment where useful and enjoyable skills can be learned, and do all this in a positive way. Take away any of these three elements and Pathfinders ceases to be Pathfinders.

So how do staff and instructors accomplish these goals? Just like you accomplish anything: You gather the tools you need, ready the needed materials, then get put in some elbow greases and get sweaty. You have a set of tools that have been given throughout your Pathfinder career. These are things like instructional methods, knowledge about child psychology, safety protocols, experience, Sabbath school lessons, etc. These are things that are offered at training events, skills you have developed outside of Pathfinders, and stuff simply learned through experience. These things are what you will use to accomplish the goals. The materials are your Pathfinders, your staff, nature, and even physical materials like wax, construction paper, or wood. Then there is the element unique to you: the effort and time you put into your club. All of these things come together to create a good Pathfinder program and accomplish your goals.

What does all this have to do with drill? Drill is one of many tools you should have in your toolbox. It is nothing more and nothing less. Just like actual tools, if you use them inappropriately you risk destroying what you are working with. In this case it's the staff and Pathfinders you have to worry about. Inappropriately applied drill can cause irreversible damage to Pathfinders. Never forget that the well being of your Pathfinders is your highest priority. Audit your drill program from time to time to make sure you are doing it right. Then take immediate action on anything you find that is not working. Even if that means shutting your program down all together.

Don't be one of those leaders stuck in the mud of the past. Just because that's the way you leaned it, doesn't give you the right to harm Pathfinders. Believe people when they tell you that something you are doing is not effective or correct. You will alienate yourself as a staff and instructor, you will loose all credibility with your Pathfinders, and you will find yourself alone in the club. That does not allow you to be effective at reaching those overall goals.

Drill is a tool. Use it properly and it can be highly beneficial. Use it inappropriately, and you will destroy all the things you are working towards. Like actual tools, not all tools have to be used in a particular job.... even if that is the only tool you know how to use.