Environmental Influences

St. Padre Pio said,

“The devil is like a mad dog tied by a chain. Beyond the length of the chain, he cannot catch hold of anyone. And you, therefore, keep your distance! If you approach too near, you let yourself get caught! Remember, the devil has only one door by which to enter the soul: the will.”

We become what we surround ourselves with. Feed the soul with nourishing food, and you will avoid the poison of sin. Feed your life with good company, and you need not worry about peer pressure. Feed your senses with only positive media, and you will have positive thoughts and attitudes. Much of our problem is that we try to spiritually consume garbage, wallowing in it, and we wonder why we stink!

Keep your distance from all that hints of evil, and you will find that holiness starts to blossom in your life.

Fly from bad companions as from the bite of a poisonous snake. If you keep good companions, I can assure you that you will one day rejoice with the blessed in Heaven; whereas if you keep with those who are bad, you will become bad yourself, and you will be in danger of losing your soul.
— St. John Bosco

Image: Pexels / PD-US

Fr. Joseph Gill

Fr. Joseph Gill

Fr. Joseph Gill grew up in a musical family in Frederick, MD, the oldest of five children. His father taught him piano from a young age, and his mother often sang in the church choir. He began writing songs very young, honing his skill further when he received his first guitar. After his conversion, he dedicated his life and his songwriting to the Lord. Fr. Gill was ordained a Catholic priest in May 2013. He is currently serving at the Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist, Stamford, Connecticut. He shares his homilies at The Cross Stands While the World Turns.

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