I worked sitting right next to a guy named Chris Stein for 2 years here in Topeka, KS. He had an interesting sense of humor, was really thin, and smokes. He left the company nearly a year ago, but we still remain friends.
A few months ago I was reminded of one of my high school teachers named Mr. Stein. Mind you, I went to high school in a very small town about 200 miles from where I live and work now. It was worlds ago (and a different life) for me. I started thinking about his name and wondered if there was any connection to my friend Chris. Why? Well Mr. Stein smoked quite a bit and was also really thin. He had a very dry sense of humor. He was the type that would run around the track with a cigarette in his mouth. I don't mean that metaphorically either. I actually remember him doing that. :D
Then I forgot all about the possible connection and don't remember if I ever asked Chris or not. Besides, Chris grew up in a different state during some of his younger years. Sometimes people remind you of other people you have known before but they have no connection.
Fast forward to last night. Last night I attended Chris's wedding. At the reception, I am standing there talking to some mutual friends and in walks Mr. Stein, my high school teacher. It turns out Chris is his nephew! The idea of it is wild to me, and I am still feeling a little strange about this today. Sometimes the world is such a small place. I wonder how many other people I could draw connections to from different areas and chapters of my life? Have you had anything like this happen? How did you feel about the experience?