Unlocking the Power of Jr Youth

The Fine Line Between Unity and Co-Dependence

Over the last few years I have reached out to a few different people interested in becoming members of the Baha'i Faith. While I do what I can to support them emotionally and spiritually, oftentimes they come to expect too much and become hurt when I can't be there for them. I try and encourage them to pray and establish a spiritual connection with God. I also do what I can to get them involved in community life. But sometimes that isn't enough, their religious connection is dependent on their connection to me, and there is only so much I can do. I cannot take that pressure, and I shouldn't have to.

So my question is, where is the line between promoting unity through developing friendships, and becoming co-dependent upon each other for spiritual sustenance? Does unity mean that everybody will be best friends with everybody else? If not, then how do we avoid forming cliques and fragmenting according into our most comfortable groups? Is there a way to have a strong group of close friends, but still interact and be unified with everybody in a challenging and meaningful way?

I am eager to hear your thoughts on these questions.

Omnes Unum

Jake has a blog which is exciting because he is a really smart guy. Check out his post "Why Should We Really Care About Poverty"