The need for a friend runs deep. We desire companionship, someone to share life’s experiences with, some level of support, someone you can trust.  But many of us are unaware that this need is driven by something deeply spiritual.

This need has become vulnerable to exploitation with the rise of so-called “AI Companions.” In this talk, we explore these issues.

Two of the verses I quote in this talk:

Although the two birds are in the same tree, the eating bird is fully engrossed with anxiety and moroseness as the enjoyer of the fruits of the tree. But if in some way or other he turns his face to his friend who is the Lord and knows His glories — at once the suffering bird becomes free from all anxieties. — Muṇḍaka Upaniṣad 3.1.2

Everyone believes in the illusory concept of the body as being the self, and all are thus submerged in the darkness of illusion. They are actually unable to understand how You live in every living entity as the Lord within the heart (Paramātmā), nor can they understand Your absolute position. But You are the eternal friend and protector of all surrendered souls. - Bhāgavata Purāṇa 4.7.30