In the ever increasing noise, chaos and velocity, our attention and conscience has been splintered. Hedonism, among other things, has taken a toll.

I agree. It's an easily-accessible pain reliever. But it's not working as well as it used to. It will NEVER rival SOCIAL SUPPORT! There's never been a more important time to have a very strong (but often small) group of supportive ppl around. It's the key. The secret to making it.

Wise words, and true.