Chapter 1: A Day at the Movies

Recently, I took a break from studying for my exams to watch the latest installment of Mad Max with a friend. It was a refreshing escape, complete with snacks and a surprisingly spacious theater, where only seven of us were in attendance.

However, my main focus today is not the film itself. Instead, I want to share some observations regarding the social interactions I’ve noticed at university. There’s a peculiar trend where individuals seem to shy away from making eye contact with one another.

I've often seen students actively avoiding direct looks as they approach each other. Just as they near, they tend to glance down, only to sneak a quick peek once they’ve almost walked by, as if confirming their distance from you. Others distract themselves with their phone screens, seemingly intent on avoiding even the simplest form of engagement.

This behavior stands in stark contrast to my experience during a skiing trip in France last Easter, where people greeted one another with warm "Bonjours" far more frequently than the casual "Hello" we exchange in the UK. While discussions around inclusivity abound, the reality at a micro level often feels cliquish, with even basic interactions becoming increasingly rare.

The other day, when the fire alarm rang in my residence, everyone poured outside, only to be met with a sea of individuals, eyes glued to their phones like "zombies," instead of making eye contact or engaging in small talk. It's disheartening to see this trend predominantly among younger people, while older generations tend to be more inclined to smile or say hello, especially on sunny days.

It seems we are becoming more isolated than ever, as communities diminish and parasocial relationships take precedence. We find ourselves living vicariously through content creators, whether it’s watching them engage in sports, eat, play video games, or even navigate their personal lives.

I can’t help but feel that this trend is unhealthy and indicative of a deeper societal issue. Rather than merely consuming or creating content, why not simply live our lives? Why not appreciate the beauty of nature without feeling the urge to post an Instagram story? Why not enjoy a meal with loved ones without the distraction of our devices?

It’s somewhat ironic that I’m discussing the need for reduced technology in our lives while utilizing it to share these thoughts. However, I believe social media should enhance our lives, not dominate them. We must reflect on whether we are the consumers of content or if we are being consumed by it.

In the end, I aspire to forge deeper connections and friendships with like-minded individuals. The symbolism of a phoenix rising embodies my quest for transformation—stronger and braver, I wish to ignite the dormant spirits in others rather than simply burning my own wings.

And yes, Bella L is a pseudonym, a playful nod to my rebranding with a crown logo 👑. I'm eager to connect both professionally and personally, so don’t hesitate to reach out! My LinkedIn and Instagram links can be found on my about page. Thank you!

Chapter 2: The Dynamics of Relationships in Today's World

In the video titled "Was there a romantic relationship between Furiosa and Praetorian Jack?" we delve into the intricate relationships within the Mad Max universe, exploring themes of connection and emotional ties amidst chaos.

The second video, "The Wasteland of Mad Max Explained," offers insights into the world of Mad Max, shedding light on the social structures and relationships that shape the story's narrative.