Wishing For Popularity

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.

Sorting through the papers Annie had brought home from school, her stepmom noticed one titled “My Wishes.” Underneath, Annie had drawn pictures of herself and the things she wished were true.

Annie’s second wish read: “Be popular.”

“Why do you want to be popular?” her stepmom asked.

Annie hesitated. “Because I feel lonely at school,” she admitted.

Annie’s best friend had moved to another school district the year before. No one at school was mean—they just had friends already, so she was often left out.

Her stepmom nodded. “Sometimes I feel lonely too—when I focus on the people I’m not friends with. But then I remember the people I do have in my life. Can you think of anyone?”

“I had fun in gym class with Lara last week,” Annie admitted. “And Grace gave me a bracelet she made yesterday.” As she thought about it, she realized she did have friends—but focusing on being popular had made her forget.

Everyone feels lonely sometimes. It’s important to notice when other people are on the fringes and invite them in. But what happens when we’re the one on the fringe? Annie’s desire to be popular isn’t uncommon. Don’t we all want to be liked? Admired? Not alone?

It’s important to recognize the friendships that are already there—waiting for us. And if we’re lonely, it’s also important to remember that we can pray specifically for God to send us friends. God cares about the big and the small details of our life, and friendships are no exception. We can give our worries and fears to him, knowing that he cares for us.

Things to Think About

• What does “popular” mean to you? Have you ever felt lonely or wished for friends?
• How does bringing our fears and worries to God change our response to loneliness and friendships?

DAILY ACT OF FRIENDSHIP

Bring an extra treat with you to school. At lunchtime, ask someone you don’t normally sit with to sit next to you. Share the extra treat with them.