Throughout history, diverse cultures have grappled with the enigma of the bonds that unite individuals. Irrespective of the distances that separate them, every culture has woven myths and legends that converge around a shared symbol: the thread. Greek mythology, for instance, introduces the Moirai, personifications of fate, each of whom holds a golden thread representing every living being, which is severed at the end of their mortal journey. In Jewish tradition, pilgrims embarking on expeditions to Jerusalem often adorn their wrists with a Kabbalah, a red string believed to guide believers throughout their pilgrimage. In recent times, the Asian interpretation of this concept has gained widespread attention, notably as the central theme of the film ‘Past Lives’. Two of its protagonists are connected by ‘In-yun’, a Korean term rooted in a Chinese Buddhist proverb that posits, ‘an invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, and circumstance.’ This proverb serves as an allegory for love, destiny, and the inherent interconnectedness of life’s relationships, even for those who have yet to cross paths.
In an era where technology has democratized the means of human connection, this myth continues to resonate. In a sense, the screens that people use to interact with one another have materialized the invisible threads linking each person to the vast web, allowing them to cultivate relationships that transcend geographical boundaries. Despite the transformative effects of digitalization, the longing for human connection remains constant. ‘There’s no question that technology is altering the way we court: emailing, texting, emojis to convey emotions, liking photographs, or selfies. We’re witnessing the emergence of novel rules and taboos for courtship,’ observes anthropologist Helen Fisher. ‘However, at the heart of these interactions lies a fundamental human desire for connection,’ she emphasizes. Technology has merely provided us with the means to nurture relationships that might otherwise have been impossible.
In a world where interactions are mediated by screens and relationships are facilitated by virtual spaces, the intrinsic human yearning for connection persists. The evolution of courtship rituals may reflect societal changes, but at its core lies a timeless pursuit of genuine human bonds. Ultimately, technology acts as an extension of the age-old threads of fate and destiny, weaving an interconnected web of human connection that transcends the limitations of time and circumstance.
