A good friend constantly reminds me that, “The church is not where we are, but who we are,” and through the last four years of high school I have found this to be true. Yes, the physical image of a church is not incorrect, but through my joyful, insightful church friends I have come to realize that love and worship are far bigger concepts than a tangible building. With youth group having a pivotal impact on my life, it is safe to say it has taught me a thing or two (ten in this case).

1. Energizers.

Outsiders may think energizers are strange, but youth group members think they are the best thing since sliced bread. Energizers are fun, simple dances that go along to popular songs and tend to wake up the sleep-deprived. Some favorites in my youth group include “Waving Flag,” “On Top of the World,” and “Istanbul.”

2. Camp friends are best friends.

When immersed in relationships bigger than yourself, how can you not make lasting friendships? Common ground is so easy to find at camp when everyone loves God and loves each other. While the goodbyes are always bitter, distance wont make that much of a difference.

3. Love each other well.

I have discovered that I feel closest to God when surrounding myself with people that love Him too. The people in youth group are the ones that will love you no matter what and will consistently point you in the right direction. You are a child of God and so are they, so make sure you love them accordingly.

4. What kind of H is that?

This is a notorious saying that my youth leader adopted from two former youth. There are two kinds of Hs -- hurtful and helpful. Whenever a snarky comment is made, this question is asked without hesitation. Fun sayings like these keep youth mindful about how their words will come across before they speak them.

5. No purpling.

Boys are blue, girls are pink, and together they make purple. It’s as simple as that. Follow this rule or the covenant police will come out to get you.

6. Confidentiality.

Yes, we play a lot of games in youth group, but I’m not going to lie, it gets deep too. When those more serious talks start brewing, it is essential to listen up and keep quiet. Sharing life stories can be awkward, and its even more difficult when the people listening cannot be trusted. Confidentiality is key for community building and meaningful conversations.

7. Be yourself.

This is a judge-free zone. I love youth group, and I certainly want everyone else to, as well. The easiest way to accomplish this is to make everyone feel welcome and loved. Besides, a cookie-cutter youth group would be boring as all get out.

8. Youth leaders do more than you know.

Youth tend to think that their leaders are only there to chaperone and lay down the law. But if you slow down and take a second look, you would see that the job entails much more. They check up on the youth, fight for more money in the budget, make and send newsletters, and plan endlessly. The beautiful thing is they don’t do it because of the job description, but because they love the youth as their own children and want them to succeed.

9. Participate.

On regular Sunday nights or during retreats, a lot of time is spent interacting with each other. But, if you hope to get something out of this time, then you have to put in some work too. That being said, bad attitudes are not welcome.

10. Love God, love neighbor, love self.

Love is best served when reciprocated. Imagine what a great place the world would be if everyone loved God, each other, and themselves. Pretty amazing, I'd say!