Summary In this conversation, Brooke Taylor and Dr. Michael Pakaluk explore the concept of friendship in contemporary society, highlighting the alarming trend of declining close friendships, often referred to as a 'friendship recession.' They discuss the importance of true friendship, its role in mental health, and how Catholic teaching can guide souls in forming and maintaining meaningful relationships. The conversation also touches on the challenges of modern friendships, the significance of friendship in marriage and family life, and concludes with a reflection on the legacy of Ruth Pakaluk, emphasizing the value of community and connection in a fragmented world.   Links Book: The Company We Keep: True Friendship and Why it Matters. The Appalling Strangeness of the Mercy of God: The Story of Ruth Pakaluk.. Takeaways You are not alone in feeling lonely. We are in a friendship recession. The percentage of adults reporting no close friends has quadrupled. Friendship is necessary, like philosophy, like art. True friendship is about sacrifice. Friendship is not flattery. We need to make ourselves more befriendable. Men have a harder time with good, godly friendships. Friendship is essential among Christians. The legacy of Ruth Pakaluk is inspiring. Chapters 00:00The Friendship Recession 04:55Understanding True Friendship 10:22The Importance of Friendship in Christianity 15:19Navigating Modern Friendships 19:29Forming Genuine Friendships 28:29The Role of Friendship in Marriage and Family 33:47The Legacy of Ruth Pakaluk