Envisioning Possibilities  

Relationships

At the location on the Bagua board, relationships are personal, intimate, and passionate, my vision board I had a hole. 

          My 52-year-long relationship with a marvelous man died when he did. I discovered that having a husband who was also my best friend did not leave a space for many others and years of walking with Alzheimer’s scared many of our old friends away. What was there to talk about with a friend who no longer recognized you, let alone talk about a mutual topic? My world became smaller, limited to a great daughter and a mentally missing husband.

          I needed to find friends, and still do. Here is a suggested list from AI on how to turn strangers into friends. It’s a good one.   I am grateful.

           Turning strangers into friends is like crafting a masterpiece, requiring patience, creativity, and genuine care. Here are some tried-and-true methods:

Initiate Conversation:

          Break the ice with a warm smile and a friendly greeting. A simple “hello” can open the door to a meaningful connection.

Find Common Ground:

           Look for shared interests, experiences, or even a mutual location. Bonding over something familiar creates an instant sense of camaraderie.

Listen Actively

          Show genuine interest in the other person’s story. Listen attentively, ask follow-up questions, and validate their experiences.

Offer Help or Support

          Extend a helping hand or offer support when needed. Kindness strengthens bonds and demonstrates your willingness to be a reliable friend.

Be Authentic

          Be true to yourself and let your personality shine. Authenticity is magnetic and attracts like-minded souls.  

Be Patient

Building meaningful connections takes time. Be patient and allow the friendship to unfold naturally.