This week, the US Surgeon General announced the country is experiencing an “epidemic of loneliness”, after embarking on a “cross country listening” tour. The advisory reported this was most pronounced in young people aged 15-24. Growing up in school teachers needed to discipline the class to settle down and be quiet. It was common for everyone to chat noisily before the class started. That may sound like a novel idea in today’s time, but prior to cell phones, people’s attention went toward each other. People formed connections through these random chats, but often now their attention looks to a small screen, for companionship, and security.
The Surgeon General stated connection is a human necessity in the same way we need water or food. It is in our nature, and our health literally suffers without it. The health effects are similar to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, premature death, anxiety, and depression. The Surgeon General is calling to build a movement to mend the social fabric of our nation. It is a” source of healing in plain sight”, he is quoted as saying.
He said to listen without being distracted, share a meal with someone, say hello to a stranger when you pass, and perform an act of service. “The keys to human connection are simple but extraordinarily powerful”.
I changed my original idea because I happened upon paintings at the end of a pier I stopped by. Also included was a memorial to someone who took their life, a 1-800 suicide prevention number., and positive affirmations for anyone who would walk by.
This inspired me to think of this surgeon general announcement. The situation for the world has been heavily on my mind before even hearing of this recent announcement. I feel it is human nature to desire community, and unity. Many of the ails in modern U.S. society can be rooted in feeling, and being disconnected from each other.
I took many photos., and unfortunately., I still can’t to seem to master the settings. The photos looked fine looking through the camera window, but when I got home and they were blurry.
Here is a link to the Surgeon General report.
https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf
And another to a smaller article of the report..,
Little Portion Friary / Shrine Location
