There’s a growing body of research that shows that human connection – to family, friends and our communities – is the key to a happy (or at least happier) life. The latest example of this comes in the form of a book: “The Good Life,” by Harvard researchers Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz.
Based on the findings of the Harvard Study of Adult Development – a long term study launched more than 80 years ago (in 1938). The study looked at Harvard undergrads in the hope of figuring out what made them tick. As noted in an article in The Boston Globe this week, the message of that study and others is that “we probably need real connections with other humans to be happy.”
Community: the path to happiness
That’s why getting more involved in your community and joining up with local groups or individuals serves two purposes: it improves your quality of life (your efforts are likely to improve the quality of life in your town). And it connects you with like-minded neighbors who are also volunteering their time. That simple, human connection will go a long way toward improving your state of mind and quality of life.
One Love, One Belmont
But what to do? And where to start? Those can be tough questions to answer. That’s why you should be excited about an event that’s happening this Saturday, March 11th: One Love One Belmont. The free, non-partisan event is co-hosted by Belmont Against Racism (BAR), The Belmont Human Rights Commission, and The Belmont Democratic Town Committee. It’s described as “an informal gathering to celebrate our community, learn more about each other, and help create a more welcoming town.”
As much of the “conversation” in Belmont and elsewhere has been turned into algorithmically driven sniping via Facebook, Nextdoor and other sites, One Love, One Belmont is a chance to meet face to face with others from our community and share ideas with your Belmont neighbors in an informal setting. ALL are welcome to attend and there will be pizza and drinks for folks who show up.
So, if you were one of the (many) people who resolved this New Year to get more involved in your community and find ways to engage and give back, be sure to check out One Love One Belmont!
One Love One Belmont will take place on Saturday, March 11th from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Beech Street Center, 266 Beech Street, Belmont. Use the button below to RSVP!