Awkward Moment or Missed Opportunity?

Cyanide & Happiness #2776

This funny little cartoon reminds me of how we interact with others within and out of the Church. I think that Catholics are uniquely "shy." I am not talking about evangelization in the world, which could be the subject of a future post. Instead, I am talking about how we don't get out of our comfort zones. We sit in "our seats" and God forbid we have to introduce ourselves to someone we don't know.

I know it can be awkward. It may even seem scary, but the upside is tremendous. You might just make a friend and in some cases, your friendly smile or handshake may just be what keeps that person coming back. Who knows, you may develop a rapport that permits you to invite them to join a group  getting engaged in the daily life of the Church. 

St. Josemaria often wrote about this as the "apostolate of friendship." Here is one point he makes:

Those well-timed words, whispered into the ear of your wavering friend; the helpful conversation that you managed to start at the right moment; the ready professional advice that improves his university work; the discreet indiscretion by which you open up unexpected horizons for his zeal. This all forms part of the 'apostolate of friendship.' (The Way, #973)

Next Sunday when you encounter that person you may see regularly, but who you really don't know, introduce yourself. Make it a point to strike up conversations with them after or before Mass over the next few weeks. Think of it as an experiment in overcoming awkwardness and making it an opportunity.