Why it's never too late to make a new friend

Last week I made a new friend and it's got me thinking how funny it is that novelty of making a new pal never really wears off. I can't say I consider myself the most confident conversationalist to ever have lived but I do enjoy a sweeping conversation with the occasional passer-by. Isn't it a wonderful thing that the quick 'good morning' or 'hi, how's it going?' you blurt out without a second thought could potentially bring a new person into your life?

At the age of 21, I'd like to think I still have a long way to go before closing doors to opportunities on myself becomes a possibility and I worry that others around me are a little too content with the familiarity of their circumstances. The words 'I have all the friends I need' should never be considered a normality and I'd like to think that when I'm rocking in my chair at the age of 93 (ever the optimist), I'd still lean over to the biddy beside me and whisper something about a carer's derrière. People meeting people is what keeps the world ticking over and the value of a warm smile to a stranger will never decrease - whether we're in the EU or not!

Let's say you're unemployed and incessantly dreaming of making it big in journalism. You see a gentleman nearing the end of a paper and ask to borrow it next because you can't go a day without flicking to page 13 to indulge in a certain columnist. What happens when the guy's response is 'I love her work too and I saw the paper is looking for an intern!' The chances might be slim but they're even slimmer without a willingness to try. Every action chucks back an equal and opposite reaction straight into your lap and whether it's a hit or a miss, don't be the one who never took the chance. So I guess what I'm saying is relax, chat and be happy. Don't spend your life assuming everyone has the chance to become an enemy because you'll close yourself off from relationships that could alter the very thing you've been looking to change. Nod your head at the chap who cycles passed you every morning, compliment the lady with the matching shoes and bag. Don't underestimate the feeling that comes with introducing yourself to someone new and equally nurturing the friendships you already have. It's summer people; grab some Pimms, light the BBQ and have a get together! Don't let people think you've forgotten about them.

Here's to hoping the sunshine makes another appearance soon! Laura x