After learning about kinship and exchange in study unit 4, I took a moment to think about the networks I make in my daily life. These networks are like webs that connect me to different people and experiences each and every day of my life. These connections are very important because they shape my experiences and interactions. They contribute to my character as a person, they help me feel supported and understood. these connections make my life easier and more meaningful. ​​​

​​​​​​In all my daily networks, my family networks are the most important, they make up the main part of my daily connections, starting from my dad and mom's teachings and advices to the fun time I have with my siblings, each member plays an important role in shaping my daily experiences. We often help each other with daily activities like chores such as cleaning, washing the dishes and cooking. They also offer emotional support. Being with my family makes me feel safe, it gives me a sense of belonging especially when things are tough. Through these interactions with my family I am reminded of the importance of family connections. But the most important exchange with our family network is the emotionally support we offer each other through words of encouragement, hugs and just being available emotionally. I find venting to my family easy because I know that we are tied they will never forsake me as we are blood related so that kind of bond can't easily be broken. My family always offers confort and strength during difficult times. The love we share for each other makes our bond stronger. 

Apart from my family, I have a network of friends who also play a vital role in my life. These friendships provide me with companionship and a sense of belonging. Some of these friends have been with me since high school, while others are fellow classmates and roommates that I found here when I got to university and have become close with. What brings us closer with my friends is the shared experiences we've been having and the natural understanding we've developed since we are peers. 

Through laughter filled with conversations and heartfelt discussions we exchange feelings and emotional support for each other. It may be a funny story or just a joke that brings smiles to our faces. These serve as my pillar of strength providing me with support and words of encouragement I need. 

I also engage with neighbors and random people that I meet on a daily basis. In South Africa we believe in the spirit of Ubuntu.  when we meet people  we greet them as sign of respect. We share food and news especially with neighbors these kind of interactions makes us feel like we're a part of a friendly community. 

Reflecting these interactions that I have on a daily  makes me me feel like I belong and have a purpose. Together we create a beautiful web of connections that make life meaningful. 

​​​​