Just because we’re different doesn’t mean that we can’t be friends. And that’s exactly what an unlikely duo in Indiana are teaching everyone that has seen the two very different people sharing breakfast together.

Eric Haralson is a 28-year-old from Noblesville, Indiana. He had went into McDonald’s and planned to have breakfast by himself. That’s when something unexpected happened. An elderly woman was also alone and approached Eric. She asked him if she could sit down with him and eat breakfast. Jan was her name, and Eric didn’t hesitate to tell the 70-year-old woman yes.

For 45 minutes the duo sat and shared their life stories. Eric told Jan about his girlfriend and his son. Jan told Eric about how she used to be an artist years ago. Although the two had never met before, they laughed and talked just like they were old friends. When their time together was up, Eric walked Jan to her car and they exchanged phone numbers.

But it wasn’t just the two of them that had enjoyed their exchange that morning. Their friendly banter had caught the attention of other people in the restaurant too, particularly a small group of Indiana teachers.

Eric never knew that anyone else was paying attention until he saw a photo of him and Jan on Facebook that had been posted by teacher Amanda Craft. She praised Eric for his compassion and the photo has been shared thousands of times.

The post said that she was ecstatic to see Eric introduce himself to the lonely woman and then shared a meal with her. Amanda says the exchanged truly touched their hearts.

Eric says he is glad that his conversation with his new friend has inspired so many people, but he’s really just glad to have a new friend in Jan. He has tried to call her and left her a voicemail about how they are internet famous now, but he hasn’t heard back.

He says he will keep trying and he’s excited to have another breakfast get together. “I know if we had forever, she would have a story for me everyday.”

How amazing is that? These two are proof that if you just try, you can be friends with almost anyone, no matter how different you are. How inspiring! Be sure to share this with your family and friends.