Chairs and Porches

Porches have shrunk. Aren't they needed anymore? Perhaps we misunderstood their purpose.

Before air conditioning was universal, porches were where we sought refuge from the heat of summer. Maybe it wasn't cooler, but at least there was a breeze.

Actually, I think that was the secondary reason for porches. They were a middle zone, where strangers became acquaintances, and acquaintances became friends.

People walking by on the street would often wave to the people on the porch, especially if they had seen them before. If the home owner waved back, many times a conversation would start, leading to perhaps a seat on the porch. Many lasting friendships developed from porch chats.

We've got something like that, in my new home town. A few beat-up old chairs are stationed under a big tree, down by the convenience store. Late in the afternoon, many times several adult men will pause to chat there. I'm still new in town, but gradually I'm being accepted into the group.

Where do you make new friends? Don't depend on porches; few people use them, and few people walk by on the street. Don't depend on night clubs and bars; people are not at their best there.

You might be surprised at what a good place a church is to develop good friendships.