👋 hello again! It's been a while. In this episode, I will be reviewing the book "Lost Connections" by Johann Hari and connecting some of the ideas to a recent dhamma talk I listened to by Sayadaw U Zawtika on finding a sense of nobility. As I read through "Lost Connections" this week, I found Hari's research and conclusions about the societal causes of depression quite fascinating. He argues that while serotonin and our individual biochemistry do play a role, there are deeper causes rooted in how modern society has frayed our sense of connection and community. The pressures of modern life and lack of fulfilling relationships can leave many feeling depressed and lacking a sense of belonging. These themes were echoed in Sayadaw U Zawtika's dhamma talk as well. He spoke of how in today's world, many lack a sense of spiritual nobility or purpose that connects us to something greater. This can leave one feeling empty and without meaning or direction. While I am not a certified psychotherapist, in this episode I aim to explore these ideas on connection, depression, and our search for meaning as I reflect on what I learned from the book and talk. My goal in this season of the podcast is simply to share what I find interesting and thought-provoking, in the hopes of continuing to learn and grow together. I hope you find these connections between the science of depression, the dharma, and the human search for purpose as fascinating as I do. Link to Sayadaw's talk- https://thitsarparami.org/dhamma_talk/cl1b0zn780jy4t0v79cxx2ueh