It was a great encouragement to see so many Porchers in Waco this past weekend for our conference on “Work and Leisure.” Matthew Crawford kicked things off with a provocative lecture on the importance of making our loves particular and responsible. Then we had a full day of talks on Saturday from Garth Brown, Elizabeth Newman, Leah Libresco Sargeant, David Lyle Jeffrey, Jeremy Beer, Jason Peters, and–of course–Bill Kauffman.
We’ve been intentional about building in plenty of time for Q&A, and we had lively discussions throughout the day. These of course continued during breaks as people clustered in knots to talk and catch up with old friends.
While I was talking with one Texan who was at her first FPR conference, she told me, “I think I’ve found my people.” And a conference regular told me afterward, “I always feel more centered after the day and half spent with the FPR family.” Indeed.
As is typical for an FPR gathering, there was lots of laughter, and this was definitely the FPR conference with the best food. Enjoying good Texas barbecue while the sun set over the (rather parched) pasture was a wonderful way to round things off.
Thanks to our sponsors, Plough and the Ciceronian Society, and particular thanks to Elizabeth Corey and Scott Moore from the Baylor Honors College who modeled generous Texas hospitality.
Plans are in the works for next year’s gathering, so stay tuned for details in the coming weeks.
