NEAs (Newly Engaged Acquaintances)

Onlysimchas and Simchaspot have become, blush, quite an addiction for me, despite the fact that 99.9% of the people who post their simchas are complete strangers. Perhaps I find the unknown vastness of our little nation intriguing. 

But then, one day, I see an engagement, and—gosh—I know both of them. The girl and I shared a table by a wedding, once. The guy and I went out once a long, long time ago (in this galaxy; he was not a Star Wars Villain). 

I found myself absorbed in this announcement. I try to think of possible dates for the girls and guys that cross my path, and in a million years. . . nope, this was one combination that would have never, ever occurred to me. 

It comforts me to consider the many factors when crafting a shidduch. Singles aren't any more honest than shadchanim when it comes to saying what they are looking for and what they really need in a spouse. Additionally, who really knows what aspects of two individuals actually *click* and spark connection?

And yet . . . it manages to work out.