Call it coincidence, destiny, fate, kismet—in one moment, lives can collide and change forever. Yet chance encounters aren't necessarily accidental; in fact, you can make your own luck by opening yourself to the world. Ben Sherwood investigates the science behind a chance encounter .

And, as proof, we offer up stirring examples of paths crossed and possibilities realized....

		How to Get Lucky You can influence your own destiny. Step one: Smile.			Storybook Ending Edwidge Danticat finds new meaning in a childhood book.
		The Timeline We compiled a brief history of fateful meetings.			Meeting Maggie Franz Lidz meets his soul mate on a city bus.
		Tightly Knit One stunning coincidence shows how intertwined our lives have become.			Snow Angels Elizabeth Strout shares a light and a moment

Have you had a chance encounter? We want to hear about it—tell your story in the comments area on this page.