Tools for Transformation Tuesday: Reconnecting

Over the course of the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to reconnect with three of my dearest friends - all of whom reside far from DC. Two of these friends have been part of my life for more than two decades, and each of them holds a very special place in my heart.

Whether meeting up on familiar ground or exploring new destinations together; whether joined by our families or catching up one-on-one; whether we had last seen one another a few months or a few years ago, the experiences had one thing in common: an instant ease.

There was no need to manufacture conversation or couch a response.  We spoke freely and sat quietly. We laughed about past experiences, caught up on current joys and struggles, and discussed what the future might hold.  While we have each been shaped and changed by the journeys that have led us in different directions, our intrinsic connections have remained strong. In the midst of the frenzy that is life, such consistency seems rare, and the experiences were incredibly grounding and comforting.

Each encounter left me feeling refreshed - and curious why such reunions happen so infrequently. Of course it can be a challenge to coordinate calendars, and traveling across the country - let alone halfway around the world - can be a strain on the schedule and budget, but I intend to make such connections more of a priority moving forward.  And when a long drive or flight isn't possible, I will pick up the phone or send a handwritten note to bridge the gap until our next  meeting.

Could you benefit from reconnecting with a dear friend? What steps will you take to make it happen?

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