12 Comments
User's avatar
Rasha Al Jabi's avatar

Ahhhh. Every word here is magic. And you are right—technology is neutral, and it can be used to enhance our relationships and uplift us or to disconnect us from ourselves and others in real life.

Expand full comment
Michell C. Clark's avatar

I appreciate you reading, Rasha!

Expand full comment
Elena Brower's avatar

Creating intentional friction, embracing vulnerabilities, being present. Calling (not just texting) my humans, deepening certain friendships intentionally, staying in the moment when we're together... this is my work too... thank you M...

Expand full comment
Michell C. Clark's avatar

Inconvenient work at times, but so, so necessary. I appreciate you, friend!

Expand full comment
Ashley Mitchell's avatar

Thank you for this piece. I find myself sometimes saying “it’s just easier”. But it can be a both/and. While I’m chasing my toddler around, simply staying updated makes sense. And also I cannot stay there for too long.

Expand full comment
Michell C. Clark's avatar

Heavy on the “both/and” — I appreciate you Ashley!

Expand full comment
seher's avatar

i am so grateful you wrote this. much of this has been on my mind and heart for a very long time, and i’ve never heard anyone really go there and talk about it out loud. perhaps because it’s also a very tender topic in certain ways.

the timing is wild (or just perfect), as i’m planning on writing a post that touches on some of this very soon. i loved seeing your articulations of some similar notions i have— they expanded my language and understanding of a collective phenomenon that’s so pervasive, yet so nuanced and unspoken.

thank you <3

Expand full comment
Jo Walduck's avatar

oh wow. thank you times a million. thank you 💗

Expand full comment
Sandra R. Saltibus's avatar

Many are aimlessly searching online for something they’ve always craved but never truly experienced. Others sense it’s familiar—like a memory tucked away—but they’ve forgotten the way back. Then there are those who remember community and connection well, but in trading convenience for connection, they’ve lost the muscle memory for it. As with any skill, if you don’t use it, you lose it. Your essay offers a map for the weary, guiding them back to the oasis of authentic connection. It brings clarity, depth, and humanity—hallmarks of your writing. Thank you - I always recognize humanity in your writing.

Expand full comment
Kim Oda's avatar

Words of truth. Honest. Refreshing.

Expand full comment
Siya Olivia's avatar

Beautifully, beautifully said.

Expand full comment
Barry Greene Jr.'s avatar

Such a timely read. Thank you!

Expand full comment