What we think creates connection with others is quality time together with them, great conversations, loving gestures, things we do together, what the other person does for us.
Have you ever noticed that you are feeling loving or connected towards others when you are not with them, or angry and frustrated when you are not with them. That's because the other person doesn't have to be there for you to connect with them. You create connection for yourself when you think thoughts about that person. What thoughts you are thinking will determine what you feel towards them.