The personal perspective starts weaving a web of connections, of relations and of belonging. Time becomes space. Time alters space. Activating the tensions between the personal and the social. Solidarity and mutual aid, loyalty and treachery, utilitarianism and pleasure, freedom and responsibility are put to the test.

Connections are formed and connections unravel. Connections create conditions and order and hierarchy. They organize a “living environment” that corresponds with our importance and interest and concern. Connections are established based on our degree of presence and intensity, dependence and need. And hope. Like a reflection, a snapshot, of our value system.

Through connections we become part of a complex system. A part within a whole – not always to our advantage, not always by choice. A space governed by the logic that everything is connected to everything, that every connection is partial yet real, that there are different shapes and forms of relationships, and that at the core of relationships we find trust and faith.

Connections place us in a world of power relations and summon
thoughts about correspondence, balance, and justice. Reality changes, people change, situations change – connections and relationships are put to the test. Exposing the insistence and cost of staying together and acting together – still and despite the danger of breakdown that hovers above the entire system. Reminding us the difference between bringing into existence – creating – to sustaining, upholding existence, continue to act.

Holding on in the face of despair and anger, discontent and impotence. They confront us with the commitment and responsibility associated with connections. Reminding us that existence requires maintenance.

Without connections there is no freedom.