Oak Leaf Tea Set, Cherry Macintosh artwork
Oak Leaf Tea Set

Human connection and individuality are two of the most important and most contradicting things in a person's life. Human connection is essential for a fulfilling life; it actually has health benefits like reducing anxiety and depression, strengthening immune function, and lowering blood pressure. Usually fighting for more attention though, is individuality. There is an inherent need in all people to put themselves and their interests first, it is literally part of human nature but humans also imitate. We learn through imitation, we always have! Think of the classical painters, they learned through imitating and studying previous classical artists’ works. Finding true connection with the right people means you cannot just imitate your environment or people who are inspiring, you have to be original in your existence and do things from the desire and passion within you rather than the desire for external validation. Finding a balance between the two is always hard but when you do find the right people, it all fits together like a set. Every person is unique and has different purposes and desires but they come together to support and complement the people they choose to surround themselves with, their chosen family. Go hug a friend.