More than a number: Physical space for growth

Like many parents at this time of year, I am finding myself surrounded by too many toys.  Many are the gifts of generous relatives to my son this past Christmas.  Some are baby toys that he has outgrown or broken.  Others are big kid toys that will be useful in the future, but he is not old enough to play with yet or understand.  

As many parents will confirm, when your child has a lot of toys out, he or she doesn't really play with any of them.  Sure, one or two favorites will still get the spotlight (for us, it's Leo the Lion and a wooden train set).  The rest will be veritable litter, strewing the carpet with colorful plastic and cloth. In that setting, each toy is just a number.  That's no fun for the child, the toy, or the parent.  Therefore, January has become my season of pre-spring cleaning, or what my husband lovingly calls "The Purge".
The last few weeks, I have been sorting items into boxes to keep, toss, or donate.  Every item will have a purpose and a place-- other than the living room floor.

The last thing you want in your community is for someone to feel like just a number.  Sure, some people like to stay out of the spotlight, sit on the back row, or not show up to social events.  But when something major happens in their life, they are going to need friends who care.  It's really hard to show individual love and care to just a number.

Making physical space for growth is all about two things:

1. Making sure your class does not get so big that people start falling by the wayside, absent and unnoticed.
2. Making sure your class is small enough for new people to feel wanted and important.

If you find yourself within a few months of hitting maximum capacity for your classroom, it might be time to plan for your own "purge".  Here are some thoughts on how to make physical room for growth.

• If your classroom space can accommodate about 40 couples on a given Sunday, and you have had a consistent attendance of 30 couples (or 75% capacity), a small influx of visitors and new members could easily have you crowded out.  Instead, pre-plan to plant a new class of about 6-7 couples (including teacher and director) that will provide space for both classes to grow.
• Make sure your classroom is set up with plenty of extra chairs and room to move around easily.  If visitors or members come in late, standing in the back or stepping in front of others to get to the last few empty seats in a row will be awkward and distracting.  That is not a happy, "I can't wait to come back" feeling.
• Have a sign on the door that clearly indicates the name of the class, teacher, and demographic (J24C, John Smith, Young Marrieds 20-35).  This will be especially helpful for any visitors who may be unfamiliar with the building.

These are just a few thoughts on making the space you need to grow your community.  In my next post, we'll explore the emotional and spiritual ways to make room for growth.  Stay tuned and share your thoughts in the comments section!