Noise

We live in a world full of noise; meaningless sound to fill the void of modern life. I don’t want to add more noise out there so I usually keep to myself in social situations. Some might say I am anti-social or shy and that might be true, but I also value the energy I put into things and usually prefer to listen and observe. Communicating and socializing takes a lot of energy for me, but it seems like, to survive in this world, you must thrive on it. Maybe that is why it seems like most people just like to hear themselves talk; nothing meaningful, just noise.  

Most noise are words, which there are so many. Everywhere you go, not matter what you are doing, you are bombarded with advertisements and words being thrown at you from all directions. Anyone can say anything. But the question should be asked- does what we have to say need to be said, and does it need to be said by us? The bad thing about a bunch of noise out in the world is that it makes it harder to hear the important stuff; the stuff you can identify with, that is meaningful to you. You almost have to know where to find it.  

Some people do not deal well with the emptiness of silence and would rather hear anything else. I wonder if that is how music came about- just hitting random objects around you until it makes a sound you like. Reminds me of when I was in school and people would use a pen/pencil and their wrist to make a beat. I remember finding it annoying in school but also pretty cool that that is all you need. I even tried to do it a couple times and I was not as good. Sometimes if the quiet is too much I will put on some music and it helps put me in a better mindset. If you are vibing with it, then it is not just noise to you. Some people think that metal/rock music is just noise but I have heard some of the most deepest, relatable lyrics from metal/rock songs and it does take a lot of talent and energy to put together a band/show.

Noise serves as a placeholder for meaningful connection. Think of it like those filler episodes between the heavy plot lines or non-player characters (NPC’s) in a video game. They serve a purpose but it is not always directly part of the plot. Sometimes maybe we just need a meaningless distraction. A break from the heavy, meaningful stuff in our lives. I think many of us get caught up in searching for any type of meaningful connection that we sometimes settle for the noise. But the meaningless noise is not sustainable for us as humans. We need deeper connection in order to thrive.

If we continue going on without forming deep connections eventually, we become angry and bitter at ourselves and others. Is it any wonder there seems to be so many angry, bitter people in the world today? I don’t think many people know what a meaningful connection looks like. That is why it is important for others to be comfortable enough to be their authentic selves so they can easily find others to connect with. I am happy to find that the world is trying to be more inclusive so more people feel like they can open up. Maybe eventually our would could be filled with less noise and more meaning.