How Does the Serendipity of Life Create Friendships?
Do notice the coincidences or serendipity of life? Have you noticed how one good thing leads to another?
Oh, How I LOVE the Coincidences of Life!
Take a look at your friendships today. Did you ever consider how you’ve gotten to know those dear friends?
Take time to do so now. Consider the history of your five closest friendships.
You may have known a few friends since high school or college and maybe you don’t remember how you met some of your friends.
But… maybe, when you take a moment to consider the history of your friendships, you’ll find that you were given an opportunity and you “took it” and that’s how you became friends!
This exercise might help you eliminate your excuses this year. Consider realistically if you are missing the serendipity of life when it comes to making new friends… right now.
I picked five good friends to consider. I remember how I met these friends and it is clear to me that if we hadn’t “decided” to become friends, we would have missed out on so much!
Friend #1: Lezli
One summer day twenty-two years ago, I walked into the garage of a home on a street that was having a neighborhood garage sale event. As in most garage sales, there were household goods, small appliances, knick-knacks, tools, and clothing.
The unique thing about this garage sale was the woman seated at a long table at the back selling scrapbooking supplies. The timing was perfect because I was working on a photo project for my oldest son’s graduation gift. What was even more perfect was that this woman, Lezli, helped me with my project and became one of my dearest lifetime friends.
Friend #2: Patricia
About 13 years ago, I was creating a new business when a high school friend told me it would be a great idea to call a friend of his because he believed we could both benefit from the “connection.”
Believing in the serendipity of life, I never say no to friendly suggestions. I made the call, and the conversation flowed easily for over an hour. By the end of the call, I was offered an interview for a position in his established company. I agreed to this, then was offered a position that was lucrative enough for me to accept it and postpone my own business venture. It was a fantastic career move!
But the story doesn’t end there. A coworker in another state became one of my best friends as a result of our morning work “huddles.” Patricia remains one of my best friends today. We still make a point to see each other several times a year.
Friend #3: Dale
Eleven years ago, I was at the gym. The free-weight machine I wanted to use had been left with the largest weights on it by the last user. When a strong gentleman saw my dilemma, he came over to help me move the weights. That led to conversation each time we saw each other after that.
Dale and I continued our friendship from there, even after that gym closed. At this moment, I’m assisting him in the rehab of his shoulder post-surgery so he can feel more confident getting back to his heavy-weight competition.
Friend #4: Claire
Four years ago, I traveled to Salt Lake City for vacation. When I arrived early at the SLC airport for my return flight, I was asked if I would be willing to take an earlier flight. Of course. No problem!
This routed me through Denver whereupon I was seated next to a woman who was interesting and engaging. We talked for two hours and exchanged contact information before we parted. In the last four years, Claire and I have vacationed together several times and she remains one of my dearest friends.
Friend #5: Elva
Just one year ago, a dear friend was moving to another state and a considerate friend of hers hosted a surprise going-away party for her. I was fortunate enough to receive an invitation to this party. The hostess of that party is now one of my “besties!”
During the past year, Elva and I have laughed until we cried, danced until we almost dropped, and believe our friendship came at the perfect time, as we are both committed to making our own happiness in life. In fact, tonight we’re having another dance party! 5 women with music in a living room is all it takes to make a great evening!
Now, your turn!
How much effort are you putting into your friendships? What have you done in the past, and more importantly… what do you choose to do in the future?
Share your thoughts in the comment box below…
Tell us about a friendship opportunity that you accepted!
Are you making opportunities to grow your friendships this year?
Consider this article, You’re Never Too Old For New Friends if you need some ideas!