In the Internet Era, Some of Our Best Relationships Start With a Keyboard
Who would’ve thought?
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Things can get messy here on the World Wide Web, I'm not denying that. I used to be skeptical of how much damage technology was doing to us, but the pandemic has helped me to see the good side of the Web. In an age where we live and die by the Internet, where our phones and tablets have become second limbs, some of our most meaningful relationships have blossomed online. The Internet has brought us out of our shells, helped those who struggle with everyday interactions find a way to connect, not to mention the endless romantic relationships and strong friendships that are formed online. The online sphere we immerse ourselves in daily may not be as bad as we once thought.
In a time where we’re feeling more alone and isolated than ever, the Internet can provide a sense of light relief. Online relationships (platonic and otherwise) are key to ensuring we feel less alienated right now, less distant from those we cherish. Via the magical enigma we know as the World Wide Web we can speak to people thousands of miles away, and strike up bonds with those we never would have dreamed of approaching IRL. We can find our tribes online. We can find communities of like-minded individuals, a sense of belonging through a hashtag or a DM. We can create bonds with those whose values align with ours. All in all, the Internet can help us feel a little more like our old selves in a time where everything is far from ordinary.
I hate the word ‘unprecedented’. It's one I’ve heard a little too often recently, and I’m sick of it. Nevertheless, these are unprecedented times we’re living in and adjusting too. The Internet is a great way for us to stay in touch with loved ones, and rekindle relationships that were on the back-burner. Seeing people on a screen may not be the same as hugging them in person, but for now it’ll have to do. For a lot of us, the Internet can be a useful coping mechanism in battling loneliness. It goes without saying online connections will never replace face-to-face interactions, but the online world can be a great way to maintain our existing relationships and even create some good new ones too.
In modern society the Internet is basically a human right. I couldn’t be without it, and I know most of you probably agree (whether you want to admit it or not). During the pandemic, the Internet has been a comfort to us all in one way or another. It allows us to remain connected 24/7, you can talk to anyone anytime virtually anywhere in the world. You can FaceTime your Nan and Grandad, Zoom call with your work colleagues, and have virtual hangouts with friends flung far and wide. You don’t have to trudge home because the movie is finishing, or say goodbye because of last orders. There's no doubt that the World Wide Web needs to come with a note of caution - so use it wisely. Nevertheless, in the Internet era, some of our best relationships start with a keyboard.
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and Twitter to see more of what I’m up to, and I’ll see you same time same place next week!
Catch you soon,
J’Nae
WHAT I’VE BEEN READING:
- This article by Input Mag looks at how Black queer designers influenced streetwear and paved the way for some of our favourite brands we know and love today.
WHAT I’VE BEEN WATCHING:
- The Hereditary movie was released in 2018, so whilst it may not be a brand new movie, it’s still definitely worth a watch. If you’re into horror films with a supernatural twist, this’ll definitely get your heart racing. It spooked me. Available on Amazon Prime and Netflix.
WHAT I’VE BEEN LISTENING TO:
- Created with sisterhood and storytelling in mind, the ‘hey, girl.’ podcast unites the voices of some incredible women who have inspiring and moving stories to tell. Author and podcast host Alex Elle gives us a peek into their world through candid and intimate honest conversations.
WHAT’S CAUGHT MY EYE:
- Dope Black Art is an account on Instagram that champions black culture through visual art. The art we see on their feed does an incredible job at showcasing art that goes largely underrepresented. More accounts like this please!
ON MY BLOG:
- ‘An Introverts Guide To Staying In’ is a blog post by yours truly detailing exactly that. As a self-confessed introvert, I’m a homebody through and through. If you're anything like me, or you want tips on how to stay sane whilst being housebound, this post is for you.