The Market of Masks

Modern dating often feels like a mirage built on performance. People curate masks and present them like products. Most interactions start to feel like choosing a costume instead of meeting the person underneath. Identity shifts toward what gets likes, matches, and approval, and the real self gets pushed aside. Stepping away from that system helped me understand what I actually value. I prefer honesty, presence, and emotional awareness over the fast and curated nature of digital connection. This essay is my reflection on how masks shape our interactions and why authenticity still matters.