A natural environment is far more complex than any playing field.

The future will belong to the nature-smart.

Environment-based education produces student gains in social studies, science, language arts, and math; improves standardized test scores and grade-point averages; and develops skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making.

Mothers tend to be more direct. Fathers talk to other fathers about their kids more metaphorically. It's a different way of communication.

There is another possibility: not the end of nature, but the rebirth of wonder and even joy.

As a species, we are most animated when our days and nights on Earth are touched by the natural world. We can find immeasurable joy in the birth of a child, a great work of art, or falling in love.

No other youth group like the Scouts has trained so many future leaders while at the same time being a nature organization with its outdoor focus.