Real Friends

By Ken Canedo

Reality TV is still popular, despite growing discontent about its relevance. Survivor, Trading Spaces, The Real World, COPS, The Simple Life, The Osbournes, Fear Factor, Life of Ryan — the list is endless, and television viewers can't seem to get enough.

What's so real about these so-called reality shows, anyway? As soon as the red camera light goes on, players tend to "act," no matter that the show's director tells them to just be themselves. People just want to be on TV and ham it up. Is that reality?

Everybody plays a role of some kind, at work, at school, in social situations. Halloween is all about putting on a costume and mask to be someone else. That can be fun, but is there a holiday that allows us to just be ourselves?

When it comes to friendship, I want to keep it real. I can count on one hand the friends in my life who know the real me and accept me as I am. We're scattered all over the country now, but we stay in touch electronically — and in prayer. As the scripture says, these faithful friends are my real treasure.
(See Sirach 6:14-17)

Still looking for real friends? Start with the Genuine One, Jesus himself. He is always there for us, he loves us unconditionally, and he quietly supports us, sometimes in spite of ourselves. Get to know Jesus as your Friend — in scripture, in the example of people who truly reflect his love, and in prayer. Friendship needs quality time to grow. How much time do we give to our friendship with Jesus?

In Jesus, we learn how to be our genuine selves. Others will be drawn to that, and they will become our real friends.

Matt Maher composed a beautiful song that expresses his friendship with Jesus in a simple and genuine way.

I love you, Lord.
I love you, Lord.
I love you, Lord.
You are my strength.