Here’s Why We Absolutely Need Meaningful Connections in Our Lives

I’m convinced we are made for meaningful connections. Two things recently inspired me about the importance of community and friendship.

First, one of my dearest friends of 26 years called me. She lives in Belgium. We hadn’t talked in years because she misplaced my phone number, but having a website and an online presence made me easy to find.

I was over the moon excited when her name popped up on the caller ID. I clearly wasn’t as intentional as I could have been about reaching out.

Can I just tell you that I’m still smiling ear to ear as I think about that conversation? Sincerely, it was like no time had passed. She apologized for misusing words, but as always, I understood. I never correct her because to me, her English is perfect.

The Paris Years

We lived together in Paris for 4 months during my college study abroad. After that, I visited Europe several times. And what I remember is that every single visit, we reconnected with ease.

I can vividly picture our rooms on Rue du Faubourg St. Honore. A beautiful old apartment in the heart of the 8th arrondissement just steps from the Arc de Triomphe. She brought this beautiful teapot that we shared over countless conversations. And when we said a very tearful good-bye, she sent it home with me to the states. Of course, I still have this cherished sentimental item.

Our Growing Families

Years later, I took my husband to Paris and Europe. We toured my city, Paris, and road the train to Belgium.

It was just as I remembered. Dinner with her parents in their home where I stayed during college. Walking arm in arm as we toured the cities of Brugge and Antwerp. Finishing each other’s sentences and endless laughter.

Later, I received a call from her that she was pregnant with her second child. How ironic that during that same call, I let her know we were expecting a son. Those children are now teenagers born within weeks of each other. Each and every phone call, the connections remained.

Another Reason Connections are Important

The second inspiration came from my morning devotional. Here are the words that really hit me, “This week is going to be a busy week. Let’s be intentional about connecting with people who may need someone to take the initiative and show them that…Show me where I can slow down to notice others and extend your grace to them.”

I’m so grateful that my friend offered me grace for not calling more often. She showed me the power of connections. So, the least I can do is pass it on to you.

This weekend, who are you going to call? I mean, pick-up-the-phone, not a text. Really connect with someone because you will make their day.

And you might reach someone like me who needed to hear the beautiful voice of her dear friend Claudia. May we always connect, no matter where we are.

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