Birds of a feather flock together.

Interesting recent research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science has produced a fascinating finding. There is apparently a 'correlation between our genetic make up and our closest friends'. Its as if we select them by some unconscious process that we are clearly not aware of. How can this be? There are a number hypothesis for example: they are of similar intelligence and therefore in the same peer group; geographic location those with certain incomes will live and move to a particular area of a city of similar financial wealth; demographic factors like age, ethnicity and schooling; professional backgrounds; hobbies and interests like the arts, theatre, football etc. Nevertheless given the cornucopia and number of choices available its worth considering - why these particular friends I have I chosen?  Its not just happenstance or serendipity. When I think of my friends - I still have some since 1966. Importantly there is a connection. All are university educated from prestigious universities, all have had very successful professional lives, most are interested in politics, some I've lived with over many years. I've been to their marriages - seen them divorced on several occasions - seen their babies and done all the other 'life cycle changes with them all'. All these vicissitudes we have shared in. We are part of an unofficial family - in other words very good friends.