. . . He said to Sir Joshua Reynolds, "If a man does not make new acquaintance as he advances through life, he will soon find himself left alone. A man, Sir, should keep his friendship in constant repair."

This quote from Samuel Johnson, as recounted by James Boswell, encapsulates the vital importance of nurturing and expanding one's social connections throughout life. Johnson stresses that without the effort to form new friendships, one risks solitude, particularly as time inevitably leads some connections to fade. His choice of words, "keep his friendship in constant repair," implies that relationships, like anything of value, require ongoing maintenance and attention to flourish. Boswell underscores this notion by reflecting on Johnson's own experiences, suggesting that maintaining a dynamic network of friends is essential for emotional resilience. The metaphor of "repair" evokes an image of friendships as structures needing regular care, emphasizing their fragility and the continuous effort required to sustain them. This understanding is not only a commentary on social life but also offers timeless wisdom on the human condition and the need for connection at every stage of life.