How often do you leave room for the unexpected connection? The surprising conversations that seem ordinary enough on the surface, but reach something deeper?

Probably not most of us. Because we’re often so focused on getting from point A to point B, on finishing the task at hand or getting what we want, that we forget the surprising experiences and joy of the in-between moments. The ordinary, unassuming but meaningful connections we can experience with random strangers, that sprinkle a little wisdom in our day.

It’s the surprising conversations you have on your car ride to work: with the mother who ended a fifteen year friendship because her friend couldn’t accept her daughter, who is transgender. Fifteen years of history, and she chose her kid without hesitating. But most importantly, she chose love she said — unconditional love.

Or the driver who welcomes you with unexpected joy — telling you he’s simply happy to be alive. And you can tell he’s not just saying that, he’s living that. And then he shares his thoughts on humanity, which surprisingly match yours — a lovely piece of validation, that there are others who feel as you do.

We may be strangers, but we’re not simply here to pass each other by. We’re meant to learn a little more about ourselves and the human experience, and we do that by being open and present to connection — whether or not it brings us anything in return.

And remembering that the small, ordinary, day-to-day, is just as meaningful as the big, obvious stuff.

So here’s to being present — as always, a gift. 🤍