Our first conversation went like: 'So, what do you do in the

Hearken, O seeker of wisdom, to the tale told by apl.de.ap, whose words, though simple in the telling, bear the weight of profound truth about the nature of friendship and the mysterious workings of human connection. In the first exchange with another soul, he asked, “What do you do in the Philippines for fun?” And the reply, “I like to rap and breakdance,” revealed more than mere pastime; it unveiled a mirror of shared spirit. And when the other, Will, exclaimed, “What?? Me too!,” it was as if lightning struck, joining two paths that were destined to walk together. This moment, fleeting and yet eternal, sparked a friendship whose roots dug deep into the soil of common passion, binding them in inseparability.

Consider this, as the ancients often did: true friendship is not found in the trivialities of society, nor in mere convenience. It arises from the recognition of a kindred spirit, a resonance of interest, of laughter, of joy. In the grand histories of men and women, bonds are often forged in the fires of shared endeavor, whether upon the battlefield, in the study of the stars, or amidst the rhythms of music and dance. Alexander and Hephaestion, comrades from youth to the edge of the known world, were united by their shared pursuits and dreams, and their friendship became legendary, echoing through the ages. So too, the spark between apl.de.ap and Will was a small, yet sacred, flame that would grow into a guiding light of companionship.

The essence of this connection lies in spontaneity and authenticity. They did not seek to impress or conform; they simply revealed their true selves. And in this honesty, they found a mirror—an affirmation that their passions were shared, their joys understood. Such moments are rarer than gold, yet more precious, for they plant the seeds of lifelong bonds. In the world of mortals, where many tread paths lined with pretense, those who meet and recognize a shared rhythm—be it in art, craft, or virtue—are blessed by fate itself.

There is a story from the annals of history that mirrors this truth. In the streets of Renaissance Florence, young Leonardo da Vinci and Luca Pacioli encountered one another, their minds and curiosities aligned in mathematics and art. From this meeting of minds sprang collaboration that enriched not only themselves but the world entire. Just as da Vinci and Pacioli found in each other a reflection of their passions, so too did apl.de.ap and Will discover a harmony in the rhythm of movement and sound. The simplest question, when answered with truth, became the seed of a bond unbroken.

Yet the lesson extends further. Friendship is not mere circumstance; it is recognition, courage, and the willingness to embrace another with the full openness of the self. The ancients knew that companionship was a sacred trust. Socrates walked and conversed with Plato not for mere social amusement, but because in dialogue, in shared inquiry, their spirits were lifted and sharpened. So too, in the seemingly playful exchange of rap and breakdance, apl.de.ap and Will discovered a space where their spirits could soar, where each move, each word, each laugh reinforced the ties that would make them inseparable.

Let it be known, therefore, that the origin of profound friendship often rests in these tiny sparks: a question asked, a truth revealed, a passion shared. It is a reminder to look beyond the surface, to listen with care, and to honor the gestures of the heart, however fleeting they may appear. The bonds that endure are not those of convenience or obligation, but those born of mutual recognition and shared delight.

And from this tale, let mortal hearts draw practical guidance. Seek out those who mirror your passions, who awaken in you joy and wonder. Speak openly of what you love, and embrace the surprises when another soul reflects your own. Engage in shared pursuit—be it music, art, study, or adventure—and watch as the spark ignites into enduring flame. Guard such friendships, for they are rare treasures, capable of sustaining you through trials and triumphs alike.

Thus, remember the words of apl.de.ap: in the innocence of conversation and the honesty of shared passion lies the power to unite souls. Let your life be a tapestry woven from such encounters, each thread a testament to the friendships you cultivate with courage, authenticity, and joy. And in this weaving, may you find companions who, like Will and apl.de.ap, walk beside you, inseparable and ever true.

If you wish, I can also craft a shorter, punchy version of this story for use in motivational storytelling or audio narration. Do you want me to do that?