When someone likes "being bad"?

[Eli4n4]

Hey…

I have some non-catholic (a few non-religious) friends who pretty much think being bad is either the fun life or good/funny/exciting/etc. Even though I used to be like that I can’t wrap my mind around it anymore and I have no idea what to say to them to make them understand that saying things like “GD” does NOT make for a good joke. Not to mention that the way they are living might seem like fun but is actually destroying them bit by bit. I’ve tried to talk to some of them and offer books/cds/EWTN because they come to me completely depressed and they have no idea why. And while they listen and are thankful that some1 at least cares, the truth just doesn’t sink in. I’m a firm believer in “preach always, and use words when necessary” so I generally don’t offer my advice unless I’m asked. I pray for them all the time…How can I help them? I feel so sorry for some of them because I know exactly what they’re going through…they’re looking for happiness in all the wrong place.

 

[blessedtoo]

Hey…

I have some non-catholic (a few non-religious) friends who pretty much think being bad is either the fun life or good/funny/exciting/etc. **Even though I used to be like that I can’t wrap my mind around it anymore **and I have no idea what to say to them to make them understand that saying things like “GD” does NOT make for a good joke. Not to mention that the way they are living might seem like fun but is actually destroying them bit by bit. I’ve tried to talk to some of them and offer books/cds/EWTN because they come to me completely depressed and they have no idea why. And while they listen and are thankful that some1 at least cares, the truth just doesn’t sink in. I’m a firm believer in “preach always, and use words when necessary” so I generally don’t offer my advice unless I’m asked. I pray for them all the time…How can I help them? I feel so sorry for some of them because I know exactly what they’re going through…they’re looking for happiness in all the wrong place.

I think we sometimes forget, once we are called back to God, what it was like before. We forget what WE were like. For me, it’s important to keep that ever present in my mind because it not only helps me relate better with people who are struggling in their lives, but it reminds me that God is working with them even when I can’t see it.

I am sure most of us who lived lives filled with debauchery can look back now and reflect on how God was present and busy behind the scenes. But my devoutly Catholic parents, who prayed ceaselessly for me, probably thought I was doomed. It is important to remember that we are not responsible for converting the hearts of those who have fallen away from God. We can offer them compassion, kindness, and truth in love but ultimately, it is our prayers and our trust in God that may matter the most.

Find consolation in the realization that God is working in their lives, just as He did in mine and in yours.