We continued our discussion on friendliness this evening. It is nice to have a second meeting each month to sometimes continue discussions. I know there are several girls in our group that really struggle with being shy. My daughter is one of them. I really wanted to give the girls some good tips that they could use to help them be friendly.
- First I let them know that it might not be comfortable but to try it anyways!! Like any virtue, it takes practice to become friendly. I shared that I struggled when I was growing up with being shy and that I still struggle. It's not always easy for me to talk start conversations with people, but I know that I have to work on it.
- Next, start with a simple hello. It doesn't have to be a long, drawn out conversation. They can simply say hello, but make sure to say it with a smile and eye contact. I had a couple of girls try this out and it was really tough. Making eye contact when you are shy takes a lot of practice.
- Be focused on the person. Don't be on a phone or playing a video game. Show the person that you are interested in what they have to say.
- Never forget to pray about it. Ask Jesus for help. I shared that when we first moved to this town, I asked God to help me make some Catholic friends. The next thing I knew, I was being led to start a moms' group at church which also led to starting Little Flowers. God answered my prayer. Of course I pointed out that He didn't just drop the friends in my lap. I had to leave my comfort zone, but He truly blessed me. I have some very wonderful friends now.
They were all given a homework assignment to work on this week. Go up
to at least one person that they don't usually talk to and say hello. Perfect way to get started on being friendly
I gave the girls time at the end of the meeting to practice . They were encouraged to pick a friend that they might not know very well, and visit with them. They spread out around the room and sat face to face. It was great to see. Even my very shy daughter came home all excited. She shared that she had made a new friend!! We are off to a good start.
