I am sitting in my pajamas after just talking to a friend on the other side of the world. In seconds, we were connected and speaking as if we were sitting right next to each other. A pleasant conversation to end her day and to begin mine.

Meanwhile, I received a social media text from a friend that I hadn’t spoken with in a year. Smiles and affection in a simple post that reminds me of friendship forged in a more stressful time.

Friends turn up in unlikely places. Strangers meet on a tour bus and by the end of the day are sharing stories and comparing culture. A random encounter leads to stories of times past and dreams of the future.

With twinkling eyes, a woman on a park bench entertains me with stories of her grown children collected across a lifetime. We are drawn together amidst a background of a busy city for a brief connection. Strangely, she reminds me of another friend from long ago that I randomly met in a swimming pool. As I listen to my new friend’s stories, I am inwardly smiling as I celebrate my friend who died and wonder at how alike they are. The world is full of surprises.

Sometimes our friends introduce us to new experiences that we would never try on our own. They give us courage to try new foods and they take us to places that are unfamiliar. But often, they anchor us in familiarity and comfort. In a few beautiful moments they do both simultaneously.

Hearing about one of my planned excursions abroad, my dear friend introduced via the magic of technology me to her dear friends and asked if I would visit them while I was on their side of the world. Based on faith in our mutual friend, we connected. They invited total strangers to their home for dinner. We accepted. It is strange to take a cab to someone’s house you never met, in a foreign city, in the dark. But I know my friend and that gave me confidence. After a brief introduction, I had new friends.

Sitting on their porch and sharing a freshly grilled meal while observing the exotic birds and flying foxes, it was amazing how relaxed I felt. The surroundings were unfamiliar, but the new friends reminded me strongly of my old friend. The shared bonds were strong.

Humans need connection. New friends are everywhere if you take the risk to interact. Every chance you can, take time to interact. Ask questions. Share stories and smiles. You may have to work harder and put down your phone. People are worth it.