Not Many People, Just the Right People

When I reflect on the various stages of my life - school, work, church, community - it amazes me how many people I have met along the way! Some were classmates who I shared lots of fun times with, some were colleagues who I saw every day, and some were just acquaintances who I met once or twice at some point.

Interestingly, it seemed meaningful at the time. But now, with time and the shift of perspective, I’ve learned something; not all people are meant to travel with you, and not every crowd is community.
In secondary school, I was a part of this noise, energy, and friendship.

We rolled in packs, shared secrets, and promised to never lose touch. In reality, most of them faded away and life took over. Not a bad thing - it’s just the way it is. Of the ones that have stuck around? A few. But they are the ones who mattered.

In the workplace, I’ve worked with every personality under the sun - friendly faces, gossip cliques, people who were fun during those times, but totally missing in my life today. Still in the midst of all that, I found one or two people I could talk to and grow with. And those were the people who made the lonely moments tolerable.

I’ve been surprised, at times, that even in faith communities and other spaces where you’d expect a deeper connection, I’ve felt more alone than ever before. Surrounded by people but still unknown. But again, I’ve been fortunate to find those rare souls who looked beyond me and was there.

That is the actual difference: not a lot of people, just the right people. The right people do not always come in the noise. Sometimes, they come quiet. They do not have to have your attention. They just are present with you. They may challenge you but with love, support you without competing with you. They are a few, probably not many but their depth is significant.

I’ve learned that I don’t need to be the one making connections anymore. I don’t chase crowds or stretch myself out trying to keep up appearances. Al i ever want is the kind of people :

• W ho brings peace to my life?
• Who ,sees me when I’m not performing?
• Who holds space for my ambitions and struggles?

In a world that glorifies popularity and rewards visibility, it’s easy to create the false idea that the more people you have around you makes it the better. But it’s really alignment hat matters. Not numbers.

Sometimes, we worry about being alone and we bgein to seek connection by staying busy with group chats, fake laughs or form fake relationships. But being surrounded isn't the same as being supported. And to being known isn't same as being understood. .

So here’s my truth: you can't have everyone at your side and that's why. I’d prefer to go deeper with a few. The people that do not just clap for me when I win but walk with me when I am lost. The people that do not need to be impressed; they need me to be real.

And if you haven’t found these people, that is ok. Become that person for yourself. And trust that the right ones will find you, not at your best, but at some point in the middle of your honest journey. Not many people - just the ri⁰ght people. That is where the gold is.