Now as I start upon my chosen way,
In all I do, my thoughts, my work, my play,
Grant as I promise, Courage new for me
To be the best, the best that I can be.

Help me to keep my Honour shining bright,
May I be Loyal in the hardest fight
Let me be able for my Task, and then,
To earn a place among my fellow men.

Open mine eyes to see things as I should,
That I may do my daily turn of good,
Let me be ready, waiting for each need
To keep me clean in thought and word and deed.

So as I journey on my chosen way,
In all I do, my thoughts, my work, my play,
Grant as I promise, Courage new for me
To be the best, the BEST that I can be.

I’ve been clearing out some of my possessions that have gathered up over the years. It’s been ages since I had seen the card with the music and words for the hymn above. When I found it, I found myself humming the tune. The words are simple, yet mean a lot. I hope that some of my Brethren in Scouting will find a use for the hymn.

The words and music are written by Ralph Reader CBE.

Rights note, August 2026: The Scouts have confirmed that the words of Ralph Reader’s The Scout Hymn may remain published on this page. The music is not reproduced here and may only be shared for Scouting-related events, such as services or shows.