When I would take high schoolers to Senior High Institute (church camp), I was always asked to "do something." Most of the time I led a peer response group because when the organizers heard I was a teacher, they thought that was the natural place for me. We would debrief whatever the keynoter had to say, discuss Biblical questions the kids had, and play some games.

Campers also chose an elective class to take...topics like euchre, chalk art, and ultimate frisbee were popular. One year Wayne went with me to camp, and we had to figure out if he would lead one of these elective classes. People were free to offer new ideas for groups, so Wayne came up with "Front Porch Sittin'."

His idea wasn't chosen.

BUT, it was a great idea.

Our cabin had a big cement stoop that was large enough to accommodate a lot of lawn chairs. We'd sit out there in the cool of the evening and talk, laugh, sing...whatever. It became such a popular thing to do that our campers could be seen on the front porch at just about any time of day or night.

There is genius in front porch sittin'. Not only do you sit, but you think, reflect, share...whatever is best for the situation. You are forced to slow down, to watch the nature around you, and to interact with the others who are also front porch sittin'.

Our front porch at home has a traditional wooden 2-seater swing. Lately, Wayne and I have been front porch sittin'. Sometimes together. Sometimes alone. It's been a welcome respite to the tv, computer, and house chores. Now if I could just convince the school to install a swing (okay, AND a front porch) outside my room, I think I'd be much more relaxed...