Do you see your connections as a way to hold on to something, someone, or as opportunities?

At some point along our way, most of us come to the realization that as big as our planet is, the world is a small place. That revelation comes to us from many sources, but there’s always a commonality — a connection of some sort.

There was a book signing at our local fantastic book store, and since the author is from Minnesota, I thought I’d pop in to chat with him. During our conversation, the author’s last name began to ring a bell in my memory. As it turns out, he is related to a high school classmate of mine. The writer knew some of the folks I know, and we bonded because of those connections. Who would have thought that, after all these years gone by, I would meet a fellow “Tylerite” — as he called us?

The world is a small place.

It’s enjoyable to host a wine tasting event. Of course, just the discussing and tasting of a new wine — or an old friend — is so nice. However, it’s the socializing that occurs during which people discover social and familial connections that is so amazing. I’ve met people who served in the same position I held in the Navy. We served a decade apart, but we experienced the same training and duty. We even shared a connection over Hogue Late Harvest Riesling wine. Both the sharing of our military service stories and our fondness for the wine were sweet moments.

You might not have a similar military experience as the two of us, but you might enjoy the rich aromas and green apple tasting wine. If so, we are connected.

Sharing memories is a connector, too. My siblings are spread from Arkansas to Minnesota. Yes, we can stay connected through all kinds of messaging, however the hours we spend face to face are critical to our family. We share current happenings and past stories. It’s interesting how some of the stories morph over time! But, who cares? As a family, we are one just like you are with your family. Again, those connections give us support and sustenance.

Do you ever wish you were young again? What would you do differently? We all are or were young, and for those of us past those younger years, maybe it’s time to let go of the past trash and focus on the good and fun times we all had back then. We can’t forget the dark times of the past, but we can choose to connect strongly with the light of our history.

Additionally, when possible, reconnect. It’s so easy to find a reason not to reach out to an old friend, a family member or an old bottle of wine. Don’t have regrets … reconnect!

I will never lose my connections to wine. I’m always inspired by the taste of the liquid. There are too many flavorful memories to enjoy over and over again — both of wine and of people. And so I’ll raise a glass of Italian Pinot Grigio tonight to this wonder in my life. We will always be connected.

Therefore, always be on your toes! You never know who will meet around the next corner.

May your connections be your fountain of continued inspiration.

As always, eat and drink in moderation, but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!