“I discovered that I can live the Scout Promise at every moment.” “It was very beautiful to spend time together and realize that we’re living for the same goal.” “Thanks to everyone who came to this truly unique afternoon.” “Thanks to everyone, a super-ingenious project, filled with smiles and teachings! We have to continue this.”

These are but a few on-the-spot impressions given by youngsters as the sun began to set on one of the public squares in the Argentine city of Bahia Blanca where Scouts and Gen 3 (teenagers of the Focolare Movement) had gathered for an afternoon of getting to know one another.

But perhaps what best describes the joyful event was a message posted on the social network by Clarita, a teenager who is both a Scout and a Gen 3. With her brother, Juanfra, and her mother, Rose, she was one of the main promoters of the event. Clarita writes: “Finally, the dream happened! We put together two movements who use different methods to accomplish the same goal: to be “always ready” to ‘do to others as we would have them do to us.’ Happy, that’s the best word to describe how I feel.”

The afternoon was an occasion for both Scouts and Gen 3 to learn, respect, be open and listen to others, but it was also an afternoon of many games, activities and laughter. Clarita continues: “Thank you to everyone who attended. I saw how the Gen 3 and the Scouts mix together so easily. Now my fellow Scouts know the Golden Rule, and will have another arrow in their bow to practice the Scout Law in their daily lives.” And the Gen 3 know the Scout’s motto: Be prepared, which will encourage their serving spirit.”

This afternoon together was also an opportunity for the leaders of both movements. The Scout leaders responded to the proposal of doing something together, saying: “We put the adventure and the service, and you put the spirituality and the unity.” But, as time went by “us” and “you” gradually faded away, leaving all the space for “Us” where everyone felt actively involved in a single effort.

As a memento of the event everyone received a bookmark. On one side was written: Do to others as you would have them do to you” and, on the other side, “Leave the world better than you found it.”

That afternoon will not remain an isolated event. Now the experience will continue through the creation of a “solidarity business” at the service of the community. The united world makes way when we are walking together!