Is individualism undermining the foundation of friendship?

Speaking bluntly, leading a comfortable life where we please ourselves is what drives much of 21st century Australia. The vast majority of advertisements compel us to think about our own needs, desires and happiness above others’. It’s no surprise that our world prizes individuality, teaching us (and our children) to do whatever makes us happy as long as we’re not openly hurting anyone.

Motivated by the belief that our highly individualistic society is undermining the foundation of friendship, Nathan Lee and Mark Hadley have teamed up again to bring us the second title in the Panda series: Friends.

Published by Growing Faith, Friends takes Panda on his second journey of discovery - one where he learns the essential ingredient for building healthy relationships. Panda realises that inward-looking friends who show no concern for one’s identity or desires are hardly friends at all, and real friends put their pals' needs first.

Perfect for kids aged 5 to 8, Friends is full of quirky illustrations and references to modern culture that will engage children to think more deeply about their own friendships. It’s as relevant for them as it is for adults, reminding us that God calls us to love others in the same way that he loves us. Included are teaching notes for parents that provide helpful questions and talking points to further uncover the themes in the book.

Friends is available now and would make a perfect addition to this year’s Christmas presents.

Visit www.cepstore.com.au, email sales@youthworks.net or call (02) 8268 3344.

Check out what Mark had to say about friendship when he caught up with Erica David of Hope 103.2 recently. Click here to listen to the interview.

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