“Some of my friends aren’t good influences. Can we still be friends?” Liahona, December 2020
Questions & Answers
Some of my friends aren’t good influences. Can we still be friends?
Photograph from Getty Images, posed by models
Share Good Things
If they are my friends, it is my duty to help them to be better, to share the gospel and all the blessings I have received by living it. If they don’t show interest in those good things, I may start to lose them little by little. Even though it is hard, sometimes that is the best thing to do.
Matheus T., age 16, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Speak without Fear
My friends know that I belong to the Church. We talked about what is right to do and what is not. Now when my friends are with me, they behave in an exemplary way, and that makes me happy. This taught me that I should speak without fear.
Diego R., age 16, Mexico City, Mexico
Be a Better Influence
I have friends who are not good influences, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t speak to them. I treat them with respect and kindness. I do not judge or criticize them. I know that friends can influence our way of thinking and acting and can even determine the person we will become. Whenever I can, I share the gospel with them and invite them to Church activities.
Saireth V., age 18, Morelos, Mexico
Put God First
Do not be discouraged if your friends do not accept your good example. You should not have to lower your standards or set aside your beliefs for others; we live to please Heavenly Father, not anyone else. Pray and search the scriptures for guidance, listen to the Holy Ghost’s promptings, and most importantly, do not let worldly things cause you to stray away from the strait and narrow path.
Riley E., age 15, Manila, Philippines
Stand in Holy Places
I have learned from my Church leaders that we have to stand in holy places, even if we are the only ones. Continue living the standards set in your life and in your heart. Try inviting them to a lesson or sacrament meeting. You can carry the light of the gospel everywhere you go! And above all, show the Savior’s love for each of them.
Allanis O., age 18, Setúbal, Portugal