Friendship is a wonderful gift
FRIENDSHIP IS a wonderful gift. As Ecclesiastes says, it is better that two be together than one, for they have the advantage of each other’s gifts and strengths.
Once there is friendship, if one falls, he will be supported by the other. If you are alone in your time of trial, when you fall, you will not have anyone to lean upon. But if you have a friend, you will be supported and comforted.
If you have a steadfast friend who carries on with love and kindness, he will be to you as your own self, and you can be confident of his friendship with any other companions. A faithful friend is a strong defense, and if you find such a friend, you have a great treasure.
I am convinced that faithful friends are very few and acquaintances are many. You should have many acquaintances, but know the difference between friends and acquaintances.
When I was a young boy at St George’s College, I struggled and experienced shame because I was so poor. It was a privilege to attend St George’s College. The boys were bright and wellspoken, but I did not feel worthy of their companionship.
What was marvellous was having the Jesuit priests and scholastics dressed in white habits and sashes. They were such good men. They mixed discipline and a cheerful love for the kids and were very devoted to the Lord.
They warmed our hearts with their care and goodwill for the boys. They used the strap if necessary – if you were rough or imprudent, used bad words, didn’t do your homework, or lied. There was always a brotherly or fatherly attitude towards us boys.
Friendship from these holy men was very special. This is what made St George’s College a place of distinct character. And we loved it!
Because of their friendship, I joined the Jesuits – I wanted to be in company with them. They dedicated their lives to us and were real friend to all of us.