From a reader:
I joined the Church at this year’s Easter Vigil and am so glad to be Catholic. My family and most of my friends are very supportive, but there are a couple who are so derisive of my faith that it truly bothers me. Nothing I say seems to get them to stop looking down on me for living my faith. Is there anything I can say to people who are supposed to be my close friends to get them to lay off? I don’t see why it’s their business.
I understand what you are talking about and I sympathize.
When they begin to make “it their business”, it may be that they have a bit of envy.
My suggestion is that you continue to study well so that you are cable to “give reasons for the hope that is in you”, as we read in 1 Peter 3:15. But beware of engaging in long arguments. And never let them become bitter in any way.
I think the most powerful argument that you can use towards those who would cast gloom, is above all to show your joy.
Be a happy Catholic. If you have to take jabs, take them. Remember that one of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit involves “long suffering” and one of the Spiritual Works of Mercy is to bear wrongs patiently.
People are attracted to happiness, especially those who are unhappy and searching for something to give them a little peace of mind. Let them see in you a potential path to their own joy.
