Friends in Faith

By Kristen Bourgeois

Friendships are important.  Yet, I seem to forget that in the midst of a crazy life.

Trying to connect with people on a good day, let alone a bad one, is difficult for a shy introvert like me. When I’m not in a “good place” in life, I tend to isolate myself; afraid to reach out.  I lock up my suffering and stuff it down, which inevitably only makes things worse.

Until I had a realization – suffering – in whatever form is takes, happens in life.  There will also be something I am struggling with. But suffering alone, in isolation, for me is hell. That’s probably how actual hell is – choosing to suffer alone.

It takes courage to step out to be honest with whatever I’m struggling with. But when I do, I’m always glad I did. Reaching out to a trusted friend, who shares my faith, is especially helpful. I may or may not be able to choose to suffer but I most definitely can choose not to suffer alone.

“God sends us friends to be our firm support in the whirlpool of struggle. In the company of friends, we will find strength to attain our sublime ideal.” – St. Maximilian Kolbe