@theai It seems to me that with the isolation we had to go through with the COVID pandemic, it has been difficult to reverse ourselves now and get out more. At least, it is for me. As an introvert, it never has been easy for me to make or keep friends.

As others have mentioned, finding a "common ground" is practical and part of it all. In our little town here, I finally had to set aside my desire to just stay home, and volunteer with the valley's community association [run by 6 hardy volunteers!] to get involved and meet some people. Likewise, heading in to a craft/book/home improvement store, stepping out of my comfort zone to interact with others. You never know as you start a conversation where it might lead, you know?

What type of activities might you enjoy doing with a new friend?
Ginger

I hear what your are saying. I'm making it a point to try new things since Covid has also curtailed so many activities.
Do you have a senior center? There are so many activities to choose from and you can go without a friend or partner.,I've also found the libraries a wonderful resource. Book clubs, activities, groups who learn about plants or ancestry. Exercise.

Being able to go on my own without a partner lets me make connections.
I'm often surprised at what I like and often just have mini conversations with people I don't know. .
For me a simple interaction and connection can turn around my day.
Also each day I look for some little unexpected thing that makes me smile. A good start!

thank you for your responses and reactions. they all mean a lot to me.