Author: Zi Yuan Wong, reporter for The Metropolitan

Claiming our independence by striking out on our own and taking charge of our future is a rite of passage for many new adults. We cannot depend on our guardians forever, so moving away seems like the next logical step in our long lives.

I got the taste of independence when I was put in charge of the house for a few months, and my initial reaction was a combination of freedom and joy. I mean, being able to live freely without being lectured? I could not wish for a better outcome.

While living alone for months can be liberating, it can also be suffocating. Without my social circle, life suddenly became duller and lonelier, especially during wintertime when going out is unlikely. Soon, a gaping hole appeared in my heart, desperate for human connection.

I brought that feeling of loneliness with me on my trip where I expected to keep to myself all the time. I stayed in cheap hostels during my trip and, inevitably, began mingling with others. Amazingly, I felt refreshed, like colors flowing back into my life, because of talking with other people and learning about their lives.

Reflecting on it, as much as I enjoy my alone time, meeting new people brings some unexplainable joy and satisfaction into my life, which can also be said for others. Whether we live close to each other, or share the same interests or hobbies, interacting with others provides us with a sense of belonging that enriches our lives. Laughing over a meal, seeing children mingling in parks or libraries, and neighbors comforting one another over the death of loved ones, these acts bring satisfaction to our lives that no amount of money can buy.

A community can also be a place for people to relax and be authentic. It can be hard for social introverts to find a circle they belong to, and the long search can discourage many. Yet, as soon as they find their circle, the barriers immediately break down and their real, unfiltered selves are on full display. Being accepted as ourselves and able to voice our feelings without fear of being judged, there is no feeling like it.

In our doubts and without others keeping us in check, we might succumb to our worst impulses, causing us to lash out and hurt others. Being involved in a community can steer us away from that path, as seeing how our actions affect the people around us might prompt one to change their ways. The hurt on other people’s faces would make any regular person ashamed of their actions. Simply put, a positive community can make people realize that being good and doing good things for others feels good, and it is a worthy endeavor to pursue.

Joining a community might seem intimidating, but the priceless joy of being able to share the good and bad times with others while displaying our real selves makes the effort worth it. A supportive community might shape us into better people who help and support each other. We might not have immense wealth, but with a community by our side, we might live happier, more fulfilling lives compared to those who are alone. Where would we be as a species, without a community of people supporting us and enriching our lives?