Sometimes the Thought of the Day and Question of the Day collide in a perfect storm of social awkwardness. Today’s pair hit a little too close to home—and maybe that’s the point. In this post, we’ll unpack the bittersweet truth behind making friends (or failing to), and what to do when you’re left off the potluck guest list. Spoiler: I’ve got thoughts… and snacks nobody asked for.
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Thought of the Day: One of the best ways to find friends is to make friends with the friends of our friends.
That’s great advice—assuming you have friends in the first place.
Today’s thought made me pause. I read it, nodded, then immediately spiraled into a mini existential crisis. What if you’re starting with zero friends? Who introduces you to the friends of your friends when you don’t have any friends to start with?
That’s like being told the best way to get to second base is by starting on first. Well, I’m still in the dugout, coach.
But all jokes aside, it’s true: friendship often grows through social proximity. We meet people at work, through our kids’ playdates, or via awkward forced interactions at someone’s backyard BBQ (more on that in a second). Sometimes the best relationships grow out of shared connections we didn’t even expect.
If you’re like me—feeling like you missed the group text—try showing up where the people are: comment on a friend’s post, say yes to a last-minute invite, or even smile at the other lone soul at the edge of the party. (Just don’t do all three at once or people will think you’re up to something.)
For more introvert-friendly social truths, you might like What Part of Your Life is Circling the Drain the Fastest?
Question of the Day: What are you bringing to a Memorial Day Potluck?
Well, I wasn’t invited, so… probably unresolved feelings and a passive-aggressive container of potato salad.
Look, Memorial Day potlucks are a whole vibe. People bring their signature dishes, wear red, white, and blue like it’s a personality, and smile like their toddler hasn’t been screaming since 6:00 a.m. I’d love to say I’m contributing slow-cooked ribs or some fancy couscous salad, but honestly, I’d probably bring something store-bought and vaguely “seasonal.”
If you were invited (congrats, popular person), here’s my unsolicited advice: don’t overthink it. Bring something that won’t melt, doesn’t require reheating, and makes people say “oh yeah, I love those.” Pasta salad. Watermelon. A giant tub of pretzels. Bonus points if your dish doesn’t require a backstory.
And if you’re not going anywhere this year? You’re not alone. I’m right there with you. Let’s make our own potluck of one. I’ll bring the humor, you bring the honesty. Deal?
You might also enjoy What’s Something That’s Scary at 3 AM But Normal at 3 PM?
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Want to Feel a Little Less Alone Each Day?
These posts are part of a daily ritual—one question, one thought, and a few words that make the world feel more connected. If you’ve ever felt left out, uncertain, or just looking for your people… you might already be one of us.
👇 Drop a comment with what you’re bringing to your imaginary potluck—or join our email crew. It’s free, and slightly more dependable than a group chat.
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