Words
You really have to have a love of words to know when to use exactly the right one. For example, the words synchronicity and serendipity have similar meanings. You have to really know what you're trying to say in order to use the word that will get your meaning across.
I'm mentioning this becuase synchronicity and serendipity are two of my favorite words (Yes, I have favorite words.) and I like seeing other writers use them. Properly. Sometimes, however, neither word fits and you should just go with "coincidence." Granted, that word isn't as much fun to read or write but, if it's right, it's right.
That's part of the joy of writing. Part of the joy of reading is finding a writer who understands the little nuances of the English language.
For the record (from M-W.com because Dictionary.com was unavailable):
synchonicity: the coincidental occurrence of events and especially psychic events that seem related but are not explained by conventional mechanisms of causality
serendipity: the phenomenon of finding valuable or agreeable things not sought for
coincidence: the occurrence of events that happen at the same time by accident but seem to have some connection
Update:: Here's a word that's more fun than "coincidence" and more accurate than the others in a certain situation. Happenstance: an event that might have been arranged although it was really accidental
See how much fun I have looking for exactly the right word? It's so satisfying.
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