So the song goes, so the title says.  Never was there a more powerful statement to me than that is right now.  Part of this new Arizona life is about making new friends, like minded friends.  Friends can come from so many different sources, sometimes it's about what is right in front of your face.  Right in front of my face was a computer screen and a woman's online community.

I had the pleasure of being part of an online community of women, women that supported each other in their daily lives, future endeavors.  It showed up for me at a time in my life when I knew I was ready to make a change. Along the way I made some real connections.  I have since become friends with many of these amazing, supportive women.  When we chat, whether via the internet, text, or an actual conversation, there is a camaraderie that supersedes the miles between us.

One of the things that doesn't happen often is the face to face meeting.  So when it happens, it is a big deal.  Online relationships are different.  Online you can bare your soul, be as authentic as you want to be and there is a safety in staying behind the computer screen.  The vulnerability of putting yourself out there takes on a whole different meaning.  The dynamic of the friendship is completely different.  So how do you handle the situation when it is time to meet in person?

I had that very situation happen to me today.  I was meeting one of my virtual friends for the first time today.  Now I have met a virtual friend before and she and I are very close.  But how could I be sure this would go as well?  What if she didn't like me?  What if I didn't like her?  What if we were better off internet friends?  So many questions, and yet so unfounded.

After exchanging numbers and a few texts, my new albeit old friend and I decided on brunch.  This was already a win for me.  I love getting together for brunch with friends.  I guess she did too.  I recognized her right away, and while a face to face is always uncomfortable for anyone, it wasn't that bad. It is funny how getting to know someone online is easier, but true connection, sharing space is even better. 

I think I pummeled her with so many questions, she probably felt like she was on a job interview.  But really I think it was about filling in the blanks.  I think we ended up learning just what we were supposed to about each other.  After all, a friendship is built over time.  Making friends isn't always easy, having the internet to be the catalyst is a great way to break the ice.  I have come to believe that the internet can make friends of those who would otherwise be strangers. 

After a delicious meal and some window shopping it was time to say goodbye.  I enjoyed my morning with my new/old friend.  It was the perfect first meeting.  No expectations, just two women sharing a meal and some good conversation.  Isn't it funny that two people that have completely different lives, who had not met in person before, can share a meal and find a friendship?  This making friends thing is new for me.  I am starting so many things anew in my life.  It sure will be nice to have a new girlfriend that understands me. So I guess the song is true, make new friends, but keep thee old........thanks Jilian, my new old friend.