6 Lessons Your Child can Learn about Relationships from Catholic Saints

A good friend is one who positively influences you throughout your life, especially in a spiritual sense. Throughout history, saints have relied on strong friendships to withstand the physical and mental attacks they have endured through persecutors. Their strong words of wisdom are valid today and can help your children enrolled in the Diocese of Orlando’s schools in Polk County as they take on the challenges of their lives.

1. St. Basil gives advice on making friends: “[H]e who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.” When you are an example of God’s love, others will become friends with you more quickly.
2. St. Francis de Sales reminds us that the more virtuous our friendships, the deeper they will run. Good friends are with us when times are pleasant as well as when we need guidance.
3. St. John Bosco warns that wayward companions will drive you from God, while good companions will bring you closer to knowing the glories of Heaven. If your companions are not following the ten commandments, chances are you are not either.
4. St. Maximilian Kolbe states that friends support us “…in the whirlpool of struggle,” giving us the strength to find God. A friend is a good listener who will help you solve life’s difficulties.
5. St. Teresa of Avila praises God when He places his followers “…in the company of good people!” Walking with those who know God will lead you to salvation.
6. St. Thomas Aquinas likens friendship to filling a void in our lives and completing our hearts. “Friendship brings out the best in a person through forgetfulness of self.” Standing up for your friends when they have been wronged proves how much you care for them.

 Developing friendships is generally quite simple, but St. Jerome warns that friendships that cease were not true friendships to begin with. Share the joy of companionship with your child, modeling behaviors that will lead to lasting friendships. Show kindness and compassion to others, and look for friends with common ideas on faith, generosity, and kindness. The Diocese of Orlando’s Polk County schools are ideal settings to form lasting friendships for your children; contact the Diocese today at 407-246-4800 to ask about enrolling your child in one of our Catholic schools. Read our blogs for more information on our schools and education.