Bringing Back Happiness, Community, Sharing, and Kindness

A Look at Life 100 Years Ago

A century ago, life moved at a different pace. People found joy not in material wealth, but in simple pleasures—shared meals, heartfelt conversations, and the warmth of community. Happiness wasn’t a goal to chase; it was woven into the fabric of everyday life.

Community: The Heart of Society A hundred years ago, neighbors were more than just people living next door—they were family. Communities thrived on genuine connection, where doors were always open, and helping one another was second nature. Families relied on each other, sharing resources, skills, and wisdom. Whether it was lending a hand to build a barn, bringing food to a sick neighbor, or coming together for celebrations, the sense of belonging was strong.

Sharing: A Way of Life In the past, people had less, yet they shared more. Hand-me-downs, homegrown produce, and homemade meals were given freely. Potluck gatherings and communal feasts were common, strengthening bonds and ensuring no one went hungry. The idea of abundance was different—not measured in wealth, but in generosity and togetherness.

Kindness: Second Nature, Not an Exception Kindness wasn’t just a virtue; it was a daily practice. Smiling at strangers, offering a helping hand, or checking in on elders was a way of life. Children were taught respect, gratitude, and the value of small acts of kindness. A handshake was as good as a contract, and promises were honored because integrity mattered.

Happiness: Found in the Simple Things Happiness wasn’t about chasing success or accumulating possessions. It was about appreciating what one had—a roof over one’s head, a home-cooked meal, the sound of laughter, and the comfort of companionship. People found joy in nature, storytelling, music, and dancing under the stars. Gratitude wasn’t a practice; it was a way of seeing life.

What Can We Learn from the Past? Today, in our fast-paced, digital-driven world, we can reclaim the essence of what made life fulfilling a hundred years ago:

• Reconnect with Community – Get to know your neighbors, support local businesses, and nurture real relationships.
• Share More, Expect Less – Practice generosity, lend a helping hand, and create a culture of giving.
• Make Kindness a Daily Habit – A small act of kindness can change someone’s day—and your own.
• Find Happiness in the Present – Slow down, savor the little moments, and cultivate gratitude for what you already have.

What Can Families Do?

• Have regular family meals where everyone shares their day.
• Start a family gratitude jar, where each member adds something they are thankful for daily.
• Encourage acts of kindness within the family, like helping with chores or writing appreciation notes.
• Spend time together outdoors, away from screens, engaging in fun and meaningful activities.
• Teach children about the value of giving and sharing by involving them in charity work or community service.

What Can Individuals Do?

• Take time each day to express gratitude and focus on positive moments.
• Reach out to a neighbor, friend, or colleague just to check in or offer help.
• Reduce time spent on social media and increase face-to-face interactions.
• Perform small acts of kindness, like holding the door for someone, giving a compliment, or paying for a stranger’s coffee.
• Simplify life by decluttering, consuming less, and focusing on experiences over material possessions.

What Can Your Place of Work Do?

• Foster a culture of appreciation by recognizing employees for their contributions.
• Encourage workplace kindness initiatives, like ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ days.
• Promote work-life balance by supporting mental wellness and offering flexible work options.
• Create opportunities for team-building activities that focus on giving back to the community.
• Support local businesses and ethical sourcing to bring sustainability and community support into the workplace.

Happiness, community, sharing, and kindness are not relics of the past. They are timeless values that we can bring back—one heartfelt connection at a time.

Let’s make the world feel like home again. Share what you are prepared to start at home, work and with yourself?