There’s an old saying “make new friends, and keep the old,” but how often do we really make the effort to curate new friendships?

I was listening to a Mel Robbin’s podcast about why it’s important to be open to new friendships. In it, she declared, “you may not have met your best friend yet.” And it’s true. There are numerous times when I’ve struck up a conversation with a stranger while standing in line, attending an event or walking my dog – and ended up adding a contact to my phone.

I’ve gotten to the point where I can start a conversation with just about anyone, anywhere. Which is odd for someone who was often labeled “shy” as a child. Maybe I picked this up from my dad, who was known for his friendly banter and magnetic personality. Or from my mom, who is known for her kindness and inclusivity. Or maybe I just like people in general.

I believe that most people have good qualities. Some are buried deeper inside but a few words of kindness can bring them to the surface and then, voila, you’ve made a friend who will enhance the fabric of your life. Everyone has an interesting story, a talent – something to contribute to the world.

Every single person I’ve met has taught me something about life or about myself. Some have become very close friends, some casual acquaintances – but I can honestly say, I don’t regret getting to know any of them.

My 91-year-old mother recently acknowledged that when you meet someone in their later decades of life,  it’s hard knowing that you will be saying good-bye to them sooner than you’d like. This was shared shortly after we attended the funeral of a longtime friend of hers. Yet, she still embraces making new friends.

Anyone who’s moved to a new neighborhood, a new town, a new state or a new anything, knows the importance of being open to new friendships. My longtime friend, Peggy Monahan explains:

“Although I grew up in the same house my entire childhood, I have always been interested in new places and new people.” says Peggy. “I left Atlanta for South Bend/Notre Dame for college – and in our married life, my husband and I moved many times. When you move a lot, you learn the skills and importance of being open and meeting new people.  We actually developed a formula for success – focusing on Church/parochial school, local clubs & work associates. Bottom line – why would someone not want to make a new friend they might possibly connect with? It’s fun!

Curious to get more feedback, I took a Facebook poll, asking the question: “Are you always open to making new friends?” The more the better? Or do you have enough and aren’t interested in expanding your friendship circle?” I invited readers to share their thoughts and learned that most do relish the opportunity for new friendships.

Here are their comments:

“I’m always open – realizing there is an ebb and flow to relationships.  Friendships change – geographical changes, conflicting interests, health issues, “growing” but in different directions, death….” says Rita Dreschel

“Friendship, perspective and relationships are so important at all stages of life. They change and grow with time and experience. Sadly, there are so many lonely people out there,” says Katie Ruthstrom

“I’m always happy to have new friends, but I’m a terrible “introduce myself” conversation starter. Since I moved into the 55+ community, it’s been so easy to make new friends. I stopped counting how many new friends I have! As a matter of fact,  I’m going bike riding in an hour with the bike club! In other words, conversation starter skills not required,” says Kent Gardner

“I’m always open, but I have been blessed with the continued friendship of seven girls/women from Champaign whom I have known almost my whole life. Still gathering from all over country at least once or twice a year,” says Felicia Greenwood

“The more the merrier! I recently posted about restarting my gardening hobby just to share my joy with my friends. I was overwhelmed by the response. Friends from all of my endeavors showed up to let me know how happy they were for me. All my worlds collided in that one Facebook post. We are never alone,” says Kathy Young

“I’m always making new friends. Some stick and some don’t. I have a lot of friends that I don’t get to talk to much but when we do, we start up where we left off,” says Sandy Pistole

“As a kid we moved around a lot, so making friends was a skill I needed. When my husband was active-duty military, I once again was forced to make new friends every couple of years,” says Nelena Neff

“I believe we cross paths with people for a reason!” says Diane Ducey

“I’m always open and am still in touch with people from every stage of my life,” says Linda Tabb

Perhaps Peter Bannon said it best when he commented: “Strangers are just friends I haven’t met yet.”

I cherish every friendship and enjoy meeting new people every chance I get. Many of my columns are sparked by experiences with friends – old and new. I’m delighted when readers introduce themselves when I’m out and about in the community. Your comments and encouragement mean the world to me. Here’s to good friends!