The author laments a long walk, passing so many neighbours and potentially unmet friends along the way. Looking for close friends who aren't around anymore.

We probably chanced across our close friends one day because we were living or doing something nearby. And introduced ourselves. And sometimes friendships spark.

The article is great but I feel it could also recognize the birds in hand nearby.

"And if you can't be with the one you love, honey, love the one you're with." -Steven Stills.