A Shark out of Water

There's something about routines that makes life feel steady, predictable—especially with age. Our weekly OG Greenland Sharks breakfast has become just that: a dependable rhythm, a chance to catch up and share some laughs over breakfast. The Sharks know each other’s stories, quirks, and resent trips to the doctor.

So, when I got an email from a guy named Chris who wanted to join us, I was surprised. He wrote, “I feel like a Greenland Shark,” and asked if he could swing by one Friday morning. I’d said, “Sure, come along”—but truthfully, I had my doubts. What kind of guy just puts himself out there, emailing strangers and asking to meet up over breakfast? Men, as a rule, don't do this sort of thing. We’re notorious for sticking to what we know. As we get older, we gravitate toward the familiar. There’s a comfort in it. Not many of us swim out to say hello.

Maybe it’s a survival mechanism. Or maybe it’s just easier to stay in our lanes, keeping interactions predictable and non-risky. But sometimes, the best things happen when you break the pattern.

Chris showed up a few weeks later (I almost thought he was not going to come), and we were all glad he did. He fit right in. Knowledgeable, thoughtful, and a good listener—he didn’t get into politics or religion, the usual conversational minefields for new company. Instead, he let things flow, chiming in with insights but mostly just enjoying the banter, the camaraderie. It’s hard to put your finger on exactly what makes someone feel like they belong in a group, but Chris had it.

For that hour, he became a true Greenland Shark. He swam out of his comfort zone, didn’t cling to the familiar, and connected with us. (He also likes to eat!) It’s a reminder of how sometimes, growth isn’t about building walls but about crossing them. We all need to be like Chris once in a while. Taking that small risk, opening ourselves to new people and places—even if it’s just a breakfast with a group of strangers—can enrich us in ways we never expect.

Maybe there's something to be learned here about staying open to the unknown. Because sometimes, when you’re willing to drift a little off course, you find yourself right where you belong.