Comments on: Making and Keeping Man Friendships

By: Harlen

Harlen — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 21:19:40 +0000

As a Freemason, I can say that the fraternity has provided me with some wonderful friendships. It also makes moving easier because almost every town has a lodge. No two lodges are the same and so I recommend shopping around a little. But wherever you go, you’ll find a group of honest hardworking men interested in art, science, literature and the well being of their community.

By: Julian

Julian — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 20:31:25 +0000

Friendship is one of the most important things in life. And in my view, anything important is worth studying about. These are all great tips, and one should see what one can incorporate into one’s life to enhance friendships. Philosophy is rather scant on the topic of friendship, although the Greek philosophers had some to say. But importantly, they said that friendship can only truly exist between virtuous people or those in common pursuit of virtue.
I used to be bad keeping in touch with friends, believing that bonds would be fine no matter how much time lapses, but the essay “The Decay of Friendship” by Samuel Johnson changed my mind. Read it here: http://grammar.about.com/od/classicessays/a/friendjohnson.htm
On another note, yes, although joining the Masons might be beneficial in regards to initiating and fostering friendships, one has to see whether their ideals coincide with what your beliefs are. From a Catholic perspective, the Church is emphatic on its irreconcilability with Masonic membership, and that what Mason’s claim regarding indifference to any religion is false. There is no compatibility. See here: http://catholiceducation.org/articles/religion/re0161.html
Knights of Columbus would be an excellent option for Catholics, since deepest friendships are based on common values and goals, and respect for a person’s character.

By: Tony

Tony — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 19:51:23 +0000

totally agree – this is really important and such an overlooked part of the lives of guys. While I’m a big fan of facebook and the blogosphere, sometimes I wonder if all of these “virtual relationships” are slowing us down from finding some new bros in our own neighborhood.

By: Alex

Alex — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 17:58:56 +0000

Just a note: For Catholics, the Masons are out, due to centuries of issues between the two. However, a great group to join (for Catholics out there) is the Knights of Columbus–combining fraternity, religion, and charitable work.

By: Mohan

Mohan — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:24:32 +0000

I am looking a honest, simple,goodlookng and careable friends so we can share our filling.