True Meaningful Connections
Let’s talk about the importance of connection.
Why is it important?
How can a positive or negative connection impact your life?
What makes for a strong connection?
Where can connections happen—home, work, activities?
Who needs to experience connection?
When can we fit this in?
For me, connection has always been a driving force. I even list “meaningful connections” as one of my top values. I make a conscious effort to stay in touch with those I love and care for—reaching out periodically via phone, email, or in person. As an extrovert, I thrive in public settings, enjoying gatherings and social events. Rather than finding them draining, they energize me. However, not everyone feels the same way. Some fear social events or find them exhausting. Others prefer quiet one-on-one meetings or a peaceful walk with a friend.
Positive connections come in many forms. A simple hello, a hug, a smile, or a wave can bring warmth to someone who needs it. This reminds me of a moment at the hospital while my mother was ill. She had been there for weeks, and a close friend of mine drove a long way to support me. We had grown up on the same street—Peacock Lane. My mother had been a significant influence in her life, just as her mother had been in mine. Both women were kind, caring, and always present as we navigated life.
When my friend arrived, I explained that my mom was sleeping and unable to speak. It felt disheartening that she wouldn’t be able to acknowledge my friend’s presence. I suggested we sit outside my mother’s room to catch up, but my friend declined. Instead, she went inside, sat quietly, and held my mother’s hand. She said nothing, yet so much was conveyed—her respect, her love, and the sadness she felt. It was one of the most beautiful moments I have ever witnessed.
That particular connection had no words, no sounds—just the gentle touch of my friend’s hand on my mother’s. She was fully present in that moment, with no distractions, no expectations—just love and presence. Within that moment, I saw what true connection means. It was a beautiful parting gift and a powerful reminder that connection can take many forms.
What Makes Strong Connections?
A few things come to mind:
Building trust – People are unlikely to share with you if trust hasn’t been established.
Shared experiences – Whether happy, sad, exciting, or even boring, shared moments create bonds.
Common interests – Love for dogs, gardening, painting, or poetry can bring people together.
Consistency – Making an effort to “touch base,” whether through a morning or evening call.
Pausing – Taking a moment to breathe, be present, and appreciate the now.
Thoughtful gestures – A small gift, a song, a handwritten note, a shared meal, or lending a hand.
The Cost of Neglecting Connections
But what happens if you roll through life without nurturing these relationships? What if work pressures don’t support relationship-building? How will neglecting connections impact your life and your family? Or will it? How does this affect those around you? When life gets tough, who will be by your side? Will anyone care or notice? Who will reach out to you? None of this may matter to you.
But, as I grow older, I realize that a forced hello, the standard, how are you? with no real interest in my answer - leaves me feeling low and disconnected. Let’s just say, material things don’t matter nearly as much as meaningful connections. I cherish my relationships, investing in those that truly matter.
Intentional Connections
Relationships and connections can happen anywhere, but intentional connections take planning and effort. When was the last time you reached out to someone? How could an invitation to lunch or coffee impact them? You could attend an event together or even meet up at the farmer’s market.
One of my most cherished connections has formed over time through daily dog walks with a friend. When one of us can’t make it, we take each other’s dog for a walk. The commitment is there. The conversation is always interesting, the dogs are happy, and we’ve come to treasure these moments.
Taking Stock of Your Connections
Now, take a count. How many meaningful relationships do you have? Does it feel like enough? Could you extend your reach? As a parent of three children, many of my friendships have bloomed while our kids participated in tennis, ski racing, volleyball, soccer, dance, and other activities. It truly takes a village to raise children. There is so much value in being part of a community—to support one another and look out for everyone’s well-being. Even at the tennis club, members often check in on those who are alone.
I once worked for a train company called Rocky Mountaineer, and one day, an accountant failed to show up for work. The manager knew she was never late and always called in, so her absence was concerning. When they checked on her, they found her disoriented—her diabetes medication had been off. Their concern and action saved her life. This may not have happened without those meaningful connections and conversations that had happened earlier.
Final Thought
So here’s my challenge to you: Take stock of your connections. Who have you shown up for? Who has shown up for you? In the end, the people in our lives—the ones who hold our hands, check in, and walk beside us—are what truly matter. Build your connections. Nurture them. And when the moment comes, be the person who reaches out. Because in this life, it’s not about how many people you know—it’s about how deeply you are known and how deeply you know your people.
