The internet is one of the most powerful tools we have for connection. In-person communication can feel limiting, and it isn’t always easy to find “our people” face-to-face. Online spaces, whether social media groups, discussion threads, or other platforms, make it easier to discover communities where we feel a true sense of belonging. Having that kind of community is one of the most important parts of human life. We see this in the Glitch Manifesto, where the author describes feeling more free to express themselves and explore online than they could offline. Community keeps us learning, interacting, and even improving our well-being. Plus, digital media stimulates more open discourse. While not without drawbacks, the relative anonymity of online spaces often encourages people to be more forthcoming than they might be in person. This allows for deeper, more honest conversations about important issues. Although online discourse is imperfect and can lead to problems, many platforms have regulations in place to address them. Ultimately, digital media allows people to express themselves more freely and connect with others in ways that feel authentic and sustaining.