Philosophers, psychologists, theorists (among others) have been pondering this question for ages. One book that comes to mind is Holocaust survivor, neurologist & psychiatrist Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning" (MHC's copy currently checked out but you can borrow from another Five College library). Subject searches in the library catalog on Meaning (Psychology) and Meaning (philosophy) will find more. If you're feeling despair, reach out for help. Talk to a trusted friend or family member, contact counseling services (www.mtholyoke.edu/counseling) or the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (www.mtholyoke.edu/religiouslife)- whichever option is most comfortable for you.
