Pastor Michael Woodruff recalls:

Americans are good at many things, but being friends and sharing life is not one of them. Our iconic figures—the cowboy, the police detective—always seem to ride alone; they can't be slowed down by a partner.

I first realized how narrowly most Americans view friendships when I was traveling with a Brazilian leader. He'd started a thriving seminary, planted a church, written books—the man makes things happen. As we were driving from one meeting to another, I said, "Hey, do you want a cup of coffee?"

He said, "Really? We have time? Wow. I'm honored. That would be great."

I'm thinking, I don't know why he's so thrilled. I quickly pull into a drive-through coffee stand, and he says, "Ugh, you Americans. I feel so sorry for you. I thought you were asking to be my friend. I thought we were going to sit together and share life."