You prompted me to reflect on my internet social life and IRL social life. I used to view the two as mutually exclusive--if I spend more time online, then I’m wasting time that can be spent with friends and loved ones in person.
But lately I’ve noticed my social spheres converging in some ways. The conversations I’m having online enrich my conversations offline, and vice versa.
Admittedly though, if I feel lonely in one of those spheres, I find myself pulled towards the other.
Your closing remark about the internet being the driving force of separation from original tribe and embrace of a new tribe is very intriguing. I'd agree that this has been the case in my own experience, but I'm not sure about that new tribe curing my loneliness. There is a kind of intellectual companionship which for sure is very fulfilling with the online tribe, but I'm still quite dependent on my local flesh and blood companions and family to combat loneliness.
"I’ve purposefully alienated myself from many people in my life." - that's a brilliant hook
You prompted me to reflect on my internet social life and IRL social life. I used to view the two as mutually exclusive--if I spend more time online, then I’m wasting time that can be spent with friends and loved ones in person.
But lately I’ve noticed my social spheres converging in some ways. The conversations I’m having online enrich my conversations offline, and vice versa.
Admittedly though, if I feel lonely in one of those spheres, I find myself pulled towards the other.
Your closing remark about the internet being the driving force of separation from original tribe and embrace of a new tribe is very intriguing. I'd agree that this has been the case in my own experience, but I'm not sure about that new tribe curing my loneliness. There is a kind of intellectual companionship which for sure is very fulfilling with the online tribe, but I'm still quite dependent on my local flesh and blood companions and family to combat loneliness.