In This Issue:
The Builder Intentional Kumpare Real Men Kumpare, o Tunay na Kaibigan?
You’re the Man! It’s an Integrity Issue Gadgets & Gizmos Buying a Tablet Checklist The Gym Go ... Get Moving!
“A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be.” ― Douglas Pagels
The Builder
Intentional Kumpare
by Jesse C. Felizardo
M
ost Pinoys have a kumpare or pare. Becoming a kumpare is formalized by being a godfather in infant baptism or wedding. Kumpare connotes close friendship. Pare on the other hand may range from being good friends to plain acquaintances.
Whatever the depth of our friendships, we can be a true kumpare who influences others positively. Here’s how: Smile. A sincere smile helps in connecting, and can tear down walls of indifference or self-consciousness. It is a good way to start a friendship.
Spend time in the community. When I became a follower of Christ, I gradually gravitated towards fellow believers until my interaction with others. When we understand our role as salt and light, we should not limit our connections with a select few, but to others in our community as well. We can participate in homeowners’ associations, cleanliness drive, bayanihan, fun run and other activities.
Be available. Nurture budding friendships. Simple calls or FB posts tell people they are remembered. Visit or invite them to your home. A casual chat about sports and work may lead to more intimate discussions about family, personal or spiritual matters. Let them know of your beliefs and limitations. Sometimes, our pare may compel us to do things that may compromise our convictions. They might think it is okay to ask for favors involving shady deals, or we may be invited to heavy drinking sessions. Drawing the line and letting them know what you believe will save you from compromise and not make them feel rejected. In a drinking session, I would say I can only take a couple of shots or I do not drink at all, but I would love to enjoy their company. Lastly, be with them through thick and thin.
Stay by their side in good or bad times. Share good and bad moments with them, emphasizing how God works in both may encourage them that they are not alone and that they too can trust God.