Hello dear @owasco 😃
What a coincidence, right? :) That you've been also reflecting aspects of this topic.
Your forest analogy is so beautiful. And your question about what bridges humans is philosophical. According to Buddhism what connects us all together, what makes us all one is: suffering. It's moving right? And also truthful. Catholicism claims it's our faith in God. Personally, I find this a dangerous idea because of its separatist essence. My favorite one is the proposition of Taoism, which claims that it is the TAO "the mother of all under heaven" that unite us with another and nature itself 😊 It's gorgeous.
During my entire adult life I have followed the rationale that the mind results from neuronal mechanisms. Coming across these studies has shaken me a little. I must admit. It is a good thing to be challenged. To venture new domains :)
Thank you very much for sharing your insightful thoughts here with us and for supporting my work with your kind, encouraging words (also, thank you for the re-esteem).
Have a great weekend!
All the best,
Abigail