ah i wasn't around for when dial-up internet was used but i definitely agree with the sentiment that most social media platforms and many parts of the internet as a whole seem like they've shifted their focus from being places to find communities to what is essentially a competition to see who can achieve the highest numbers/engagement/etc.... compared to even 5 years ago it's a bit scary to see how much of it is now just bots/AI, and it's very easy to start 'doomscrolling' !!! but i think you're right in how itch.io seems more welcoming than most platforms, perhaps because the target audience is a bit different or at least more specific...? it's much less daunting knowing that what someone posts will likely only be seen by people who share the same interests ! it seems like you've also fostered a very kind and respectful community in general; it doesn't feel as intimidating or cliquey(?) as some others might be . ^_^
ohh i see ! it sounds like it must have been a very difficult and strenuous experience growing up. of course i can't fully relate to your situation, but i know how mentally taxing being outcast from your peers is, especially during such a time when your brain and emotions are still developing/maturing. it's really amazing you were able to find solace online ! ! also yes HAHA i remember when i was growing up too a lot of people didn't know about korea. i think it wasn't until 'gangnam style' and bts was formed that people started to take more of an interest in our culture LOL;; i'm also very happy for you being able to connect with your heritage a bit more when you entered college!! i don't think being unable to speak a language or being disconnected from their culture makes someone outside or any 'less' of their ethnicity than someone who had the resources or privilege to do so. it just means they had a different background/situation, but in the end we are all the same ^^
i hope for you to be able to wake up and find a reason to smile each day too. thank you for taking so much time to talk to me ;; i was really shy to post and went back and forth on it for a couple hours but at the end i'm happy that i managed it! i hope your days in the future are gentle and kind to you and your loved ones, and that your 2025 is very very auspicious ! ! !