you know what jahanna, (i almost typed "tina" for some reason"), i feel the exact same way, and I have to fight myself constantly NOT to do that.
I've lived some different places (not that many, but still) I have this knee-jerk reaction of two stages
1. You people are boring, we have nothing in common
2. I don't need any new friends, I already have friends
I basically constantly remind myself that everyone has SOMETHING of value to contribute to a conversation/friendship - it's my job to find out what that is. Maybe someone has a really positive attitude you can draw from. Maybe someone is really dependable. Maybe someone can be your guide to your area and knows interesting information. Maybe someone else always has great return visits you can learn from.
At the very least, you always have the truth and spiritual things to discuss as a common ground. That helps a lot.
No one's asking you to be BEST friends with this type of people, but just to find a way to enjoy yourself. It might take a while to find the friend that enjoys traveling as much as you do - you might never find that person. In the meantime, you'll enjoy yourself as much as possible where you are, and REALLY appreciate when you find a friend who loves traveling and having experiences like you do.
i really appreciated this post, and you're definatly right, i do need to see the good everyone has to offer without just writing people off because of my personal views on things.
I think I should make it my determination to bring a little insanity to Red Lion, PA...make people play frozen turkey football, and eat sushi in the middle of a Tower Records parking lot, and throw donuts at eachother at midnight in the Kingdom Hall parkinglot. Yup, that's what I'll do.
if you want me to come and help, just say the word.
haha, okay! i wanna hang out with you & Lauren it's been so long! Austin is getting together a rafting trip for this summer, anyone who's interested...come join us! I'll let you know the details.