Connection
At what cost?
The need is elemental, universal
It makes us human.
Connection is what we crave
Deep within our souls, the need
Keeps stirring, prompting the search
To look for ourselves in others
The mirror image that reassures
That we are not alone since
Loneliness is the biggest curse.
But connection at what cost?
If we can identify with only the types
That are like us, what about diversity ?
Doesn’t learning to respect difference
Signal maturity, growth and clarity?
Hey you, I’m talking to you.
Wanna be my friend and hang out?
I’d do anything to be included.
Connection at any cost will backfire
These don’t grow into deep, lasting
Friendships that stand the test of time
I don’t wanna be alone. Anybody out there?
Why this desperation? Why rush?
The need to be in, the urge to belong.
Life teaches us the meaning
of connection if we let it.
I have a few good friends
But I’m fine with being by myself.
I have a different quest now.
Connection with my deeper,
Evolving self is what I seek.
Aim to understand who I am so that
I understand life and others better
If that makes sense, my job is done.
I like how this poem doesn't dismiss our need for connection, but questions what we're willing to sacrifice to achieve it. The shift from searching for belonging in other people to cultivating a relationship with yourself felt especially meaningful. It made me wonder whether the healthiest relationships come not from fearing loneliness, but from no longer being controlled by it.
What an interesting poem to read