The Special People We Meet: What Makes Them Unique?

I was reminded today of a phenomenon that is rare in this life: meeting a person that takes our breath away: those who we recognise instantly as 'special' or unique in their constellation of character traits.

It can be rather difficult to articulate what we find so alluring, perhaps because our response initially emanates from our unconscious minds; the conscious component takes on its own life and dynamic thereafter, where nuance and insight coalesce.

But what is it we are drawn to? I define it quite simply as a person's 'essence'.

Philosophy has much to say about this quality, but that is for another day. So, to keep it simple - essence refers to an individual's fundamental, unchanging core, that is the representation of who they are beneath their thoughts, appearance, mannerisms, and behaviours . But more importantly, it also relates to their unique consciousness, core values, authentic presence, and the way in which they connect with others.

These are not learned behaviours; they are innate. In other words, they just are what they are, and often such people are completely unaware of the qualities they possess and the impact they have.

I think often of my own experience with a once-in-a-lifetime connection with a dear friend who was deeply spiritual, humble, insightful, compassionate, wise, open, inclusive, and lived a life of love. He made an enormous impact on me that continues to evolve, despite his passing several years ago.

A person with such a luminous essence lives on in the legacy that they do not consciously curate - through the people they have known and loved, and the sacredness of connection that transcends boundaries of time and space.

And so I remember my friend every day with gratitude and love for all that he was and remains. I reflect on the lessons he taught me, in his own gentle and unobtrusive way. I reflect too on his imperfections and the way he bore them.

When we meet that special person, it is important that we tell them how much we appreciate them, and how much they mean to us. When they are gone, we no longer have that opportunity, and their absence will be felt keenly; it is only then that we realise how vital it is to live in the present, and to be mindfully thankful for each moment of connection.

I wish you well in your journey; may you be blessed with deeply meaningful encounters.