When I reached the age of 63, I felt like something was missing in my life.

There was a deep emptiness, a loneliness that covered me every day and made me wonder if I ever really mattered to anyone.

But then, I heard a story that changed my perspective and opened my eyes to the possibilities ahead.

It was the story of a 71-year-old woman that made me think.

She had retired five years ago and took a huge step: she moved 200 miles away from the place she had spent her entire life to be closer to her daughter.

She had only seen this new town once when she went to buy her house.

It was a small town in Arkansas, a place where she knew absolutely no one. But she had the courage to start over.

Five years later, her life had transformed completely.

She got to know her neighbors, became a part of a wonderful congregation full of new friends, and visited the local grocery store regularly where both the customers and staff were friendly.

She even had a friend who had moved to the area a year earlier, who was still trying to find friends and opportunities.

Her message was simple but powerful: no one is going to come to you unless you step out and look for connection.

You need to be part of something, a community, take walks around your neighborhood, and talk to your neighbors.

Don’t let loneliness take away the last years of your life. Each day holds a special value and should be fully enjoyed.

She gave me courage. If I lived near her, she would be willing to be my friend.

And the truth is, when you’re friendly, people remember you. This story gave me a new push to get out, see the world through different eyes, and remember that life is full of opportunities, no matter your age.

I hope this helps someone who is on the same path I once was.