21st Century Friendships

Back in the late 1970’s, I had an unusual hobby, one which led to me being introduced to the man I would eventually marry (and that story served as the basis for my first novel, Emily’s Hope). The hobby? Writing to pen-pals from all over the world.

So it’s not surprising that one of the things I appreciate most about the 21st century is how simple it is to make new friendships with those far away. Communication by Skype, email, chatting, texting and free long distance makes it easier than ever to communicate with those geographically distant. I have had the pleasure of making many new and lasting friendships through different online writers’ groups, Catholic websites and other virtual venues.

This happened recently when I “met” fellow writer, Elizabeth Schmeidler, through an online Catholic writers’ group and we began emailing back and forth. It became evident that we had much in common, so it wasn’t long before we were chatting on the phone. She soon ordered both of my books on Kindle.

After she read my first book, Emily’s Hope (which deals with pregnancy loss), she sent me a beautifully moving poem/song she wrote after her own miscarriage entitled “Whispers of My Heart.”

Tomorrow, with her permission, I will be sharing this poem with my readers, along with a chance to win Elizabeth’s CD entitled “Hope.”

Text and photo copyright 2011 Ellen Gable Hrkach