Tony Angelo and his friend, George Petro, grew up in the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn. The two dreamed about their future. “When I’m older, I’m going to join the navy,” declared Tony, leaning against the banister in front of his house.

“And I’m going to join the army,” said George.

It all seemed like wishful thinking at the time. But the years flew by and their boyhood dreams did become a reality.

Just before Tony entered the navy, George gave him a lavish farewell party and invited all their friends from the neighborhood. Everyone celebrated and danced for hours. As the party neared its end, George put his arm around Tony and said, “Buddy, I’m gonna miss ya.” “Me too,” said Tony. George was also scheduled to leave for his army post within a few weeks. They recounted some of their better childhood memories, wished each other well, and said their goodbyes. They were best friends, but could this be the end of their strong relationship?

A few years passed. Tony’s ship was docked in San Francisco. Like many of the other sailors, Tony wanted to take in the sights, but first he needed to tend to his laundry. He found a nearby Laundromat, but was disappointed to see that all the machines were in use. Wanting to explore the area in the small amount of time he had available, Tony wandered further into town. He found a Laundromat in a cul-de-sac off the main thoroughfare.

Tony unloaded his clothing into the washing machine and then noticed that he didn’t have the correct change. “Hey, buddy,” he said, turning to the first person on his right, “got change of a dollar?” The stranger found the change, looked at Tony and said. “Here, that should do it.” Tony thanked the stranger, and the two made eye contact. “George! Is that really you?” shouted Tony. “Tony! Is That really you?” came a resounding reply. They laughed, uproareously, and hugged each other warmly. In this place they had both found, far away from home, each other. What a coincidence or was it! Was this not just another miracle of God’s mysterious providence?

Just like the woven threads of a tapestry that are integral to its design, true friends will continue to appear and reappear in our hearts and in our lives, in the strangest places and at the craziest of times because the bonds of true friendship always remain.

Cherish your friends for they are a true blessing. As the scripture says: “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter, he who finds one finds a treasure.” (Book of Sirach 6:14)

—Fr. Hugh Duffy