re: Boy Scouts file for bankruptcy due to sex-abuse lawsuits

The reality is, that 40-60 years ago, the molestation of boys was more common than we want to admit. It wasn't just the scouts or the church. It was in athletic locker rooms. It was in schools. It was at swimming pools.

I think a lot of the responsible adults, be it parents or organizational leaders, just didn't want to admit it was true. To this day, I know older Catholics who refuse to believe a priest would molest anyone, and who never would confront a church official over it.

Mental health research and polices at those times thought this was something that could be cured, was a passing thing, etc. So, if they just moved a scout leader from one troop to another, then it would go away, and no one would have to confront it.

For those of you who think letting in gays or girls is causing the problems... you do realize that the vast majority of these cases are over 30 years old? In 20-30 years, we can discuss what impact gays and girls have on the organization. Further, the American organization was one of the last in the world to take these steps.

I'm an Eagle Scout. I have many friends and professional associates who are also. I have many friends who have their sons (and now, daughters) in the program. I have many friends who serve as pack and troop leaders, as trainers, etc. They are the ones who are getting hurt today, by not only having their reputation trashed, but having to pay higher fees for registration and insurance, to cover all these payouts.

BSA has been attacked from both sides of the political divide. The left attacks it because they don't feel BSA is inclusive enough. The right attacks it because they feel BSA is pandering too much.

And as far as the Mormons, their leaving was a purely financial decision. They realized they can start their own organization for a lot cheaper, and not have to pay for all these settlements.

My daughters both tried girl scouts, that is a disaster of an organization if I ever saw one. I would like for them to join Scouting BSA, but the both have enough activities in their lives.

The timeless values of BSA, personal responsibility, good citizenship, preparedness, teamwork, loyalty, are still taught today.