I think a society reveals itself in its culture.

Thats why so many have a problem with Facebook, you can really see who people are and they may not even realize it. My Facebook feed is a constant source of joy and creativity, but I am a good gardener. I have deepened existing relationships and grown new ones via FB. I digress.

I was quite heartened by the Tonys on Sunday night. The Band's Visit (I haven't seen the Broadway show, but have seen the film) won many awards and is all about bridging the gap between cultures and human beings. One of last years multi nominated shows, Come from Away (one of the BEST on Broadway), is also about welcoming strangers and turning them into friends. Much of the rest of the Tony show was about inclusiveness (aside from DeNiros outburst) and tolerance. A great evening in the theater(including DeNiros outburst).

Dr Claudia Kawas from the University of California at Irvine, who has spent the past 15 years studying the lives of the 'super-agers' says getting out and about and talking to strangers is a better way to engage your brain than doing crossword puzzles, as other researchers have recommended.

Researchers have found that it takes about 50 hours of time spent together for two people to become “casual friends” and at least 200 hours of quality time to become close friends.

You don't have to be friends to be kind.

That could be the most valuable lesson.

"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it." - Hebrews 13:2