Friendship Brings Light to Our Lives

Unbound sponsor Clair Sweet reflects on the blessings of friendship. 

We are taught early on about the importance of friendship. We’re encouraged to interact with other children on the playground, coached by our parents and teachers on how to make friends and how to keep them.  

Friendship is often born of shared circumstance. As a military spouse living overseas, I’ve developed some of the most meaningful relationships with other women as we’ve found ourselves in the same position, thousands of miles away from family, friends and American conveniences. An experience that had the potential to be dark and isolating has provided some of the most fruitful friendships with individuals with whom I will share lifelong bonds.  

Friendship counters the isolation of poverty 

Poverty is another dark and isolating experience millions of families around the world face. The lack of ability to provide for your family and prepare for the future, paired with a lack of access to resources, only increases feelings of loneliness. For many who live in these circumstances, Unbound sponsorship is a hand of friendship extended when it’s needed most.  

Through sponsorship, families are lovingly welcomed into communities of others who’ve been in their shoes and understand their struggles. Sponsored children, young adults and elders are paired with a caring individual who can offer words of encouragement and prayer as well as financial assistance.  

International Day of Friendship is July 30. According to the U.N., the observance is based on the idea that friendships can foster peace and build bridges between communities. Through sponsorship, the connection of friendship spreads around the world. 

Elder is happy being with her ‘mates’ 

Sponsored elder Blanca, 84, of Ecuador, finds camaraderie making crafts with her fellow elders and giving the items to neighbors to give them joy. She’s active in her church and brings Communion to homebound elders or those suffering from illness. She also enjoys connecting with Unbound staff when they’re making home visits to sponsored members in her community.  

“When they came to see me here at the house, I felt happy because here at home I have no one to talk to,” Blanca said. “I don’t have anyone, so I go to the Unbound [activities], and I am feeling really happy and joyful to be with all my mates.” 

Philippians 4:19 says, “My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”

We all need friends! Whether you are currently blessed with wonderful friends or in a season of seeking connection, have faith that God will provide. Thank God for his provision in relationships, or prayerfully ask God for fruitful friendships. Consider reaching out to another in need of connection, spreading the love of friendship even further. 

Remember, too, that Jesus is our first and best friend who’s always there for us.  

Let’s pray: 

Lord, you have created us as creatures who crave community. Thank you for the friendships you have developed in our lives in your name. Provide for us in loneliness and help us to trust that you will provide. Encourage us to extend a hand of friendship to others who need it most. Amen.  

Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2024 Clair Sweet for Unbound
Images: copyright 2024 Unbound, all rights reserved.