Why are we so depressed?

   Let's face it, a lot of Americans are depressed. More and more antidepressants are being prescribed everyday. But why are we so depressed? We have everything don't we? Most of us have everything we truly need, and even want. Then why are we depressed? We really do have it good in this country. They key to our unhappiness is our want. We want it all. And in our mission and failures to get it all we experience dissatisfaction and sadness. Now are there people with real chemical imbalances, of course. But not at the rate that the drugs are being prescribed. Or who's to say that the imbalances aren't self induced, a result of our environment. I read a quote years ago that said depression is the most severe form of selfishness, at first this quote sounded kind of harsh or brash. But when you get down to it, there is a lot of truth to it. When you put aside your own wants and desires, and put others first, and focus on serving others it is hard to be depressed. 
   We have been brought up in a culture of consumerism. It is every where you look, TV, billboards. We often define ourselves by the car we drive or the size of our house. But who do you think created this game? The corporations need you to want their products, that's why celebrities get paid millions to tell you what to wear and what to buy. Don't buy in to this game. Don't participate. Because you will never fill the void. Whatever you buy will never make you happy. You will always want and desire more. It's and endless game that only results in you feeling unfulfilled. 
   We think we will be happy once we have reached this goal, or this stage in life, get this job, move to this neighborhood, meanwhile our lives are passing us by. Because once you reach those stages, there will be more goals and objectives to be reached. The key is to be happy right now, in the present moment. Once you come to the realization that you have everything you need, and everything is ok you will start to experience the joy of the present moment. 

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