7-1-i-Search-Jessica

= The Wonders of Harcerstwo = by Jessica

**Introduction**
What would my life be like without harcerstwo? First off, harcerstwo is this type of Polish Scouting, and no we do not sell cookies! I have been a part of this since I was six years old. At first it was just a way to make time pass if my parents couldn't pick me up from Polish School and such. However, it has become a part of me, and a part of who I am. I've had many memorable experiences and made many friendships that will most likely last a life time. It has enriched my life in so many ways. From this, I've learned how to treat most minor cuts and injuries, how to treat a nosebleed, and the best way to prevent a snake bite from spreading. Ive also learned some handy tips that will let me last awhile in a forest if I would be stranded. I've also learned a lot about Poland, and a lot of its History. In general, this has enriched my life, and made me feel closer to my country, and my people. It makes me feel this way because without it I probably wouldn't know as much about Poland as I do now. I also probably wouldn't be able to speak the language as well either. I'm writing this assignment because it has grown to be such a part of me, that I have no idea what I would do without it. Lately, ever since I've started middle school, the amount of work I've had to do has increased. My parents mentioned that if my grades slip, I would have to drop a few extra curricular activities, Harcerstwo being one of them. I just can't imagine what I would do when something like this would happen, so I am doing this to find out what my life would be like without it, to make sure my grades stay up, so I can be a part of harcerstwo for all of my life.

**Search**
I found out many things about harcerstwo. I had done so by listening to oral stories. Every time a bunch of people from the scouting organization get together, we have a huge campfire. Every time this campfire occurs, we listen to an important story, about why Harcerstwo can be importnat and how it is useful in life. These stories are told be elders who have been a part of the scouting for practically all of their lives. From then I decided that I wanted to be a part of Harcerstwo for all of my life. From the stories I've learned that in order to be a par tof this, then I have to be hard-working and always at the top of my game.

I have also learned many other things about harcerstwo from some productive research. I found out that every six years an important event occurs. That even happens to be called Zlot, and its something that occurs world wide, every six years. The most recent one, held in Maryland consisted of many people from all around the world. There were people from the U.S of A Poland, Australia, Canada, France, Argentina and many other places. This world wide meeting is very important. It is a wonderful chance to get to know many different people and learn about many cultures, among those Poland. This is also a chance to truly live up to many things and learn many life lessons that will be extremely useful throughout life. One thing that many people say they find at Zlot, is true love and pure happiness.

According to my Scout master, you start off really young, as what most people would call brownies. Favorite memories there are too many to consider, however, the top three would be hiking trips, camping experiences, and above all meeting her one true love. Its the one connection she feels she has to Poland. She feels closer to God because of Harcerstwo. Every day going to church, and truly listening to those words. Without harcerstwo, she wouldnt have done many things that represent who she is. Met the love of her life, her best friends, and be the mother of a child. Harcerstwo is a truly enriching activity

**Conclusion**
Honestly, I found that my life would be pretty sad without harcerstwo. I simply wouldnt be me anymore. At first harcerstwo was just a way to spend time on a Saturday afternoon. Now it has become a part of me and a part of who I am. Without it, I would definetly not be me. Harcerstwo has always actually helped me out with my grades. I'd always have to do my homework before anything, or else I wouldn' t be able to attend certain trips and such. I thank my parents for signing me up for this because without it, I wouldn't be me, or the REAL Jessica Koziol.

**Works Cited**
16 Apr. 2008 <[|http://www.geocities.com/zlot7kanada/biwak.html>.]

16 Apr. 2008 <[|http://www.pulaskiparade.com/english.html>.]