I can’t count how many conversations have been struck in my travels based purely on my Apple gadgetry in use. Back in 1997 it took me three days in Thailand to convince the owner of the beach bungalow where I was staying that it was safe to let me use his one and only phone line to connect my Newton and get my email from an AOL server in Bangkok. Or the prosecuting attorney who switched MP3 players with me on a flight from Denver to Honolulu . He has since upgraded from Rio to iPod. He has also shared some awesome snorkeling locations. Not to mention the “she’s cool” vibes I get from those who could be my grandchildren when they see me with my iPod or 12” powerbook. Vain me, I just love that!

Today Apple introduced its new mini computer — what you might call the next generation cube. It happened at one of the now famous Steve Jobs Macworld keynotes. Those are a purely giddy event that has more intrigue and emotional pull for Apple fans than Christmas morning does for a legion of six year olds. One by one, the new toys get rolled out on stage, backed up by very grownup facts and figures about the legendary quality and innovation that is Apple without parallel.

So if you’re feeling lonely, drop into an Apple store, and get yourself something. Then carry it around with you and notice the friends you meet. You never know where it might lead, but I am darned sure you’ll have fun on the way.