In general, people that we meet in person are pretty cool people

In the world of human interaction, there is a deep truth that often goes unnoticed: the authenticity of human connection is found not in grand gestures or fleeting moments, but in the simple and genuine exchanges that occur when we meet one another in person. Alissa White-Gluz, in her words, captures this spirit perfectly: "In general, people that we meet in person are pretty cool people—always very respectful, just happy to be there, happy to enjoy the music." These words are not just an observation about the nature of concertgoers or fans, but a profound reflection on the nature of human interaction itself, suggesting that when we engage with each other face-to-face, we are often met with a deeper sense of respect and shared joy.

The ancients understood the value of in-person connection in a way that transcended mere physical presence. In ancient Greece, the philosopher Aristotle spoke often of the importance of community and virtue, arguing that the good life is found in the exchange between individuals in a society. Socrates, too, spent his life not in isolation, but engaging in dialogue with others, seeking wisdom through direct interaction. Their idea of a flourishing life was one rooted in authentic conversations and a collective pursuit of the truth. In this sense, White-Gluz’s words resonate with the ancient belief that true connection, and by extension, true fulfillment, comes from being present with others, sharing in the human experience.

Consider the story of Alexander the Great, who, despite his towering ambition and the vast empire he built, understood the power of human relationships. Throughout his campaigns, he would meet with local leaders, not as a distant ruler, but as a fellow human being, sharing in their cultures and learning from their wisdom. His approach was not one of dominance alone, but of respect for the individuals he encountered. This helped him forge lasting bonds with the people of the lands he conquered. Similarly, White-Gluz's reflection on meeting people in person highlights the unspoken power of simply being present, treating others with respect, and celebrating the shared human connection.

In more modern times, the world of music and performance offers another powerful example of the importance of personal connection. Beethoven, despite his personal struggles and ultimate deafness, communicated the profound emotional power of his music by performing it live, engaging directly with his audience. His symphonies were more than just notes on a page—they were living, breathing expressions of human emotion. Every performance was an opportunity for the composer to connect with his listeners in a way that transcended words. In a similar fashion, White-Gluz sees the connection between the artist and the audience not as one of distance, but of shared joy. Music becomes the universal language, one that connects people on a deeper level when experienced together.

This principle also applies to the ancient Romans, who believed that public gatherings, such as festivals and games, were a vital part of community life. These events were more than just entertainment; they were opportunities to bring the community together, to share in a common experience, and to build relationships across social classes. Even in times of conflict or division, the act of coming together in person for a shared purpose—whether for festivals, games, or the simple act of conversation—was seen as essential for maintaining the fabric of society. White-Gluz’s observation about people being "happy to enjoy the music" speaks to this timeless principle—that people, when brought together in genuine, face-to-face connection, are often more alike than they are different, and that the shared experience fosters a sense of unity and joy.

The lesson embedded in White-Gluz's words is one of empathy and community. In a world where digital interactions are increasingly the norm, we can often overlook the deep value of direct, personal connection. We must strive to create spaces where we can come together, not just in the virtual world, but in person, sharing our experiences and emotions with one another. Whether it is through music, art, or simple conversation, it is in these moments that we find the true strength of human connection.

In our own lives, we must seek out these opportunities for authentic engagement. As White-Gluz suggests, the joy of simply being in the presence of others, sharing a common experience, is one of the most powerful ways to connect. In a world that often pulls us away from personal relationships, let us choose to come together, to listen, to engage, and to celebrate the richness of human interaction. It is through these connections that we not only strengthen our relationships but also contribute to a deeper sense of community and understanding. As the ancients knew, the essence of life is found not in isolation, but in the shared experiences that bind us all together.