On every car ride around Iowa, my parents and I always have conversations. During these conversations, we talk about many topics. Politics, art, music, lived experience. Today, on the drive-up to a shopping center, my father and I talked about connection. Connection with strangers, connection with friends, and the connections that leave a lasting impact.
I explained to him how one of my classes had a natural strong cohesion. All of my classmates and I have distinct personalities, but we always seem to rally behind one idea: building connections with each other. No matter our differences in upbringing, culture, or understanding of the world around us, we always had each other's backs. There were moments that made us question another person’s perspective, but most of the time we were able to dismiss our differences and share the same love for fostering connection.
I have built lots of connections during my adventures in NYC and around the world. When I think back on all the time I spent away from home, the time I shared with others stands out the most. I don’t think about the endless hours I laid in bed, sick as a dog because of the food. I don’t think about the hot weather that slowed me down. I think about the stage I shared with others frequently.
I know that one of my strongest qualities is connecting with others. Sometimes I am able to understand someone in a matter of minutes. It may not seem like it when I am talking, giggling, or sharing a meal with you, but I do think about the way my story connects with yours. My father and I agreed that humans are social creatures. We are not only meant to cultivate social interactions, but we also have the natural ability to detect social cues and hints that help bring people together.
During my short stay in China, we often compared American and Chinese culture. One of my dear friends was appalled at what we Americans took for granted — unlimited possibilities. The discussion led to the agreement that Americans move so fast that we often forget about the people we have an impact on. Our culture focuses heavily on what we can produce, and often forgets how production was able to happen I spent a lot of time in China thinking. I would sit in the tea field, running my hands through the tea leaves. Nothing existed except my nose basking in the scent of the tea, and the clouds floating by. I was able to slow down and make teabags for the people I love. When I think back on my time in China and now, I think about connections. How do my personal experiences help lead me to form new connections? Who am I within each friendship?
TJL