> two people not speaking to each other because they're each absorbed in their own thing is a bit gross First, none of what follows is applicable for people w

> two people not speaking to each other because they're each absorbed in their own thing is a bit gross First, none of what follows is applicable for people who are absorbed in their own thing even though they're near each other because they can't afford separate rooms. In that case, you do what you have to do. But if we choose to be in the same room together, shouldn't we interact with each other rather than being absorbed in our own things? Otherwise, why not go to our own rooms? Mind you, I'm an introvert. And most of the time, I merely tolerate family gatherings, even though I choose to fly back home to spend time with my family. (I'm single and currently living in a tech hub, across the country from my family.) But I try to participate, at least a little. And I generally don't put my earbuds on until I've spent my time with the family and go back to being alone.