Accoutrements and Necessities (or being ‘squared away’)

My children will (might) remember Dad as often telling them as they got ready to go someplace, “don’t forget your accoutrements.” What this meant, ‘in the day,’ was to stop for a moment to review what they might need in the coming hours that would be necessary or helpful to them to carry with them or to be readily accessible should the need arise. 

What this usually meant was that if they were going to church or school meetings (or anywhere) to always carry with them a pencil or pen and something to write upon and a dime for a phone call.  I often told them – and others—that ‘a wise man always carries two books: one to read from and one to write upon.’ 

If they were going for a hike it was to take some toilet paper, a band-aid and an alcohol towelette, a whistle, a pocket knife, some water and snack and a jacket or bright-colored windbreaker.  If going in a car to be sure to have safety or emergency supplies: flashlight, flare, cone, a rag or towel, water, first-aid kit, blanket or extra coat and a little food. 

In our day some of the specific items might change a little bit because of technology (cell phones with camera and recorder, etc.—only helpful if they are kept charged) but many of the items are still germane.  A ‘squared away’ person will take the time to stop and think about the possibilities that they might encounter (bad or good) and ‘be prepared’ (the great scout motto that all would do well to internalize). 

Think about the wisdom of having some of these items available should you be taking an airline flight, or going on a date, or meeting people for the first time at a meeting or a party, or going on a hike or traveling in a strange city, or going with a work crew or to help somebody, or anticipating inclement weather, etc.:

·        Some money; your identification document(s); personal medications; emergency contact information including physician and phone numbers

·        Dark glasses (and extra prescription glasses including a paper copy of your lens prescription) /sunscreen/ gloves/water bottle/ watch or timepiece/a small light on a keychain/rugged clothes and shoes

·        List of phone numbers/addresses/map

·        An extra set of keys (house and car). 

·        A properly maintained car (tire pressures; good hoses and belts under the hood; battery and wiper blades, oil checked, and always maintaining at least a quarter of a tank of gasoline).

·        A plan: for an immediate house/business evacuation in case of fire or weather disaster.  A meeting place for family members and contact/communication plans.

·         A supply of provisions—72 hour kit (at least) with food/water/meds/ equipment such as fire extinguishers/shovels/basic tools

·        And for the long-term: insurance; secure documents/passwords/directive for physicians, and some easily accessible emergency funds.

·        Finally, a clear conscience and an honorable life—being ‘square’ with God.

  

“If ye are prepared ye shall not fear.”  (Doctrine and Covenants 38:30)