There are all sorts of relationships in life. Friendships, romantic interests, casual acquaintances, and each occupying a different facet of life. But there are some relationships so unique, they defy a proper title. Much like any other relationship, they take time to form, and grow deeper and deeper through the years, yet, you never know quite what to call it. The relationship between you and your bodega proprietor is a minor, sweetly brief, but ever-present relationship.

If ever you have been a regular at any establishment, you know the strangely intimate feeling you feel with the staff. Your lives are entirely separate, but joined by something as simple as a daily salad or bacon, egg, and cheese. It begins by a simple, and obligatory “Have a nice day” and “Thank you.” Soon enough names are exchanged, and little details of life are revealed… You work downtown, he has two kids, you are having a hard week, he’s attending a wedding soon, and so on. The two of you begin a rapport that’s not quite a friendship, but not quite strangers.

Then there are the days where you are running late, but quickly click your Carmel app to ensure your prompt arrival to work, and skip your usual morning stop. The next day, your absence it noted at your bodega, and he inquires to make sure that everything is okay.

For a moment, you are taken aback. The deli guy noticed your absence, and asked if everything was okay. How strange… yet oddly comforting.

And so life goes on, and your knowledge of one another grows, yet still remains slightly removed. Never will the two of you meet for a drink, go to dinner, or split a Carmel car ride to the same destination. But for those little moments of the day, it is nice to have a friendly face that knows your name, and you know his.

It is a little detail of daily life, but so very effective. When one is down or lonely, every little connection is that much more vital and appreciated. It is always worth the time to get to know the people in your life, from those to whom you answer at work to those that serve you food to those that drive you from point A to point B. As unconventional as some of these relationships are, they offer a human connection that is always so welcomed in our mutual existence. So here’s to relationships as unique and varied as life itself!