I'm so thankful for the Internet because actors and singers and

Hear the words of Ariana Grande, a voice known across the nations, who proclaimed with joy: “I’m so thankful for the Internet because actors and singers and performers now have a way to connect with their fans on a very personal level which I think is quite special.” In this saying is found a truth of our age, yet also a wisdom as old as humanity: that the bond between the artist and the people is sacred, and every new bridge that strengthens this bond is a gift to be received with thankfulness.

The first jewel in her words is thankfulness itself. Grande does not speak of the Internet merely as a tool, but as a blessing—an instrument of communion between hearts. Gratitude here is not for fame nor for fortune, but for the chance to stand closer to those who give her strength. This is humility, the recognition that the performer is not exalted above the people, but joined with them in mutual exchange. Without the people, the voice would echo into emptiness. With them, it becomes a chorus that shakes the world.

The second flame is the connection she honors. In ages past, kings spoke from thrones, poets recited in crowded squares, and musicians sang in the courts of nobles, but always there remained a distance. The singer shone upon the stage, while the people looked upward from the shadows. But now, as Grande declares, the wall has been broken. Through the Internet, distance collapses, and the performer may speak to the listener as friend to friend. This intimacy is indeed special, for it allows art to breathe not only in halls of grandeur but also in the quiet chambers of the heart.

The third truth is the sanctity of the personal level. Grande reminds us that fame must not be a barrier but a bridge. When the powerful remove themselves from the people, pride festers, and their art becomes hollow. But when the mighty stoop down to speak with tenderness, when the performer remembers the humanity of those who watch and listen, then art becomes communion. It is no longer mere performance but fellowship, no longer distance but embrace.

History gives us a mirror in the story of Charles Dickens, who traveled across oceans to give public readings of his works. In his time, such acts were revolutionary, for the great author lowered himself from the heights of literary fame to speak his words directly into the ears of his audience. He sought to touch them personally, and in doing so, his works lived not only on the page but in the hearts of the people. Just as Dickens cherished those personal encounters, so Grande cherishes the digital meeting of artist and admirer across the globe.

The fourth jewel is the recognition that every bond carries responsibility. The Internet gives power to connect, but also power to harm. Grande’s gratitude for it is a call to use it wisely—for encouragement, for positivity, for building bridges of light. This is the duty of all who hold influence, whether singers or teachers, leaders or parents: to use the channels of connection not for selfishness, but for love and service.

The lesson for us is clear: do not take the bonds of connection lightly. Whatever platform you hold, whether vast or small, treat it as sacred. Be thankful for the people who listen to you, who walk with you, who believe in you. Use your voice not to boast, but to encourage; not to isolate, but to unite. For in every connection lies the possibility of transformation, and in every word spoken lies the power to heal or to wound.

Practically, we can live this wisdom by cherishing the channels that bind us to one another. Write messages of encouragement. Reach out with sincerity, not performance. Be mindful that even a single word can change the course of another’s day. And above all, let gratitude govern every interaction, as Ariana Grande reminds us: be thankful for the gift of connection, for it is indeed quite special.