Power of Connections

    What's up, Buttercup

    It’s true, and as cliche as it may sound, everyone you encounter in life, at some point, will probably play a role in your journey. I’ve learned this firsthand. As someone who's still young, I’ve had my fair share of moments where I wasn’t always outgoing or comfortable reaching out. I used to be timid, shy even, and the thought of starting a conversation or making a new connection wasn’t easy. But as time passed, I realized something profound: people matter. And we don’t always see it right away, but those small moments can shape our future in ways we don’t expect. 

    You might initially see a person as someone you could “use” or “need” for something, but I see it more as a reciprocal relationship. You are genuine, offering your time, focus and your love. For example, when I’m with my friends, I make sure to put my phone away. I give them my full attention, with my body language and my mind. That’s how I show my love and my care. It’s not just about hearing what they say—it’s about being present and showing I value them. And in turn, they do the same for me. They listen when I need them. 

    I am by no means popular, but even teachers I’ve been introduced to years ago still keep connections with me. And I do take pride in that statement. Who knows? One of them may write a college application for me, or they may even become a teacher for one of my children. They’ve offered me nourishment and cultivated my interests, and I’ve offered them my focus and given them a sense of pride seeing the clay sculpture form into a statue. 

    I’ve come to realize that life is all about building this intricate web of support. Every person you meet is a thread in that web, and each thread plays a crucial role in holding you up. On the flip side, I’m a thread in other people’s lives, too. Sometimes, when I’m feeling low, my support system lifts me back up. And when my friends are struggling, I do my part to help them rise as well. It’s not a one-sided thing. It's a perfectly balanced equation. 

    Even those people you might initially be forced to meet or those who start off as simple acquaintances could turn into something more meaningful. It's not always about “what you can get” from someone—it’s about building a community where everyone gives and takes. When you help others, they remember. And when you need help, they’ll likely be there. Everyone is important and of significance none or higher than the other. 

    A lot of the friends I cherish today didn’t start out as close friends. It was just a small hello, a casual question about how someone’s day was going. But over time, those little exchanges add up, and before you know it, you’ve built a lifelong friendship that you wouldn’t trade for anything. 

    So remember this if you find yourself doubting your decision to go talk to somebody new: Connections Matter. People Matter. Every interaction, no matter the size, is a seed you can grow and feed, so that one day it can flourish into a flower that fosters love and care. 

Hope you enjoyed,

-AMS