Featured
Stories

Cassandra Di Lalla (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

It’s always an interesting experience for me to find my tribe, because friendships aren’t the easiest for me. I have social anxiety and I’m absolutely terrible in a large crowd or any type of social setting, really. I get nervous and uncomfortable, and I embarrass myself (obviously not on purpose) because I start rambling. I guess my comfort lies in overcompensating?! I don’t know. It’s just difficult for me.

It isn’t a simple “one and done” process for me to be able to find people with similar interests, because personality is a big thing for me as well. I need to make sure that it will feel natural and not forced when conversing with someone, especially if I’m trying to figure out what their personality’s like and vice-versa.

I have a minuscule circle of friends, but I like it that way, because again—it’s a comfort thing for me.

A few of my favourite pastimes are as follows: laundry, knitting, reading, writing, spending time with my pets (or being around animals in general), volunteering (but not just anywhere), learning new things, taking part in health and wellness webinars, thrifting, etc . . . I know there are many people out there who share these similar interests; however, I’m a homebody so it’s a bit of a challenge trying to figure out where I’d feel welcome and most at ease while doing the things I love, and sharing those moments with people that enjoy those same hobbies. 

I hate to admit this, but my generation is very much dependent on video games, the internet, social media, etc . . . rather than being one with the trees or just out in nature. I’m somewhat guilty of that. I’m often on my phone watching inspirational videos or searching courses of interest, reading a book outside in my backyard or focusing on personal writing projects.

I find that, in this day and age, social media is the most appropriate tool to use in order to find out about events or activities. You’ll see posts about a book club or what’s happening at local community centres, vendor markets and farmers’ markets, art shows, conventions (such as Anime North, Comic Con, or even health and wellness shows) and so on. We’re so dependent on social media because we’re able to reach a very large audience or find a specific community of people/population that have those same hobbies in common.

There are cafes where people go to play video games, board games, and have food and drinks, and some of them even host tournaments. There are platforms such as Twitch where you can livestream video gaming, broadcasting, creative content, etc . . . 

For me personally, I love libraries, bookstores and community book sales. The library’s nice and quiet, which allows you to do your reading, writing, homework, research and whatever else in peace. Oh, and puzzles! My local library changes up their puzzle whenever the current one’s completed—anybody can jump in and have a go! Not only do you have the freedom to borrow books, but you can also borrow CDs, DVDs, puzzles, crafts/other activities, board games and some other cool items. The bookstore’s magical because if you’d rather purchase a book or anything else to call your own, then voilà—it’s yours to keep and you don’t have to worry about returning it to the library. I appreciate community book sales because 99% of the time, the book sales’ profits support churches, community centres, animal shelters or other charities. So not only are the prices reasonable, but you’re also helping out tremendously. 

Animal shelters are some of my favourite places to be. It breaks my heart, seeing all of these fur friends needing a home filled with love, care, compassion and safety. But my heart feels whole when I’m able to offer them all of my love when I go and visit. The most difficult thing at the end of all of this is when it’s time to leave. I feel this immense guilt when I see the sadness in their eyes, and then I feel as though I’m abandoning them. It’s heart-wrenching. I wish I could bring them all home, because they all deserve a safe haven . . . serenity . . . comfort. I have two dogs and a cat at home so my hands are tied, but my heart is just so full of love to give, so I try to donate whenever I can even though I’m already in a tough spot financially. It’s so rewarding to know that my donations make a difference, and it’s a nice feeling to know that the outpouring of my love and care filled their day with a little sunshine.

The world is made up of different people with different personalities and varying interests—that’s completely okay and it keeps life interesting. Sometimes I’ll go and see what’s out there, but most times I’ll be at home, and that’s okay too.

Whenever you find a suitable setting, whether it’s a cafe of some sort or even a group where you feel at home—just embrace it and enjoy your time.

—

Cassandra Di Lalla lives life purposefully. She enjoys reading, writing and mental health initiatives. She’s an animal lover for life and an innovative individual always finding new ways to create.