We live in extraordinary times, where technological marvels continue to reshape every aspect of our lives. Over the past four decades, films predicted futures with flying cars and instant transportation—devices that could move us across great distances in the blink of an eye. Some concepts still remain out of reach, but technology has made significant strides in transforming how we interact with the world. Flying cars and self-driving vehicles are no longer the far-off dream they once seemed to be.
As technology has grown, the distance between disruptive technologies has shortened. The internet, the OG of my time, was fairly quickly followed by the rise of the cell phone, then social media, and now artificial intelligence. These innovations have altered our daily routines, from the way we work and communicate to how we learn and entertain ourselves.
The television first captured our attention. The internet then brought knowledge and entertainment into our homes, creating an ever-expanding universe of information. Cell phones followed, making it possible to stay connected to the world at any moment, though often to the detriment of being present in the moment. Futuristic films offered glimpses into utopian societies, where daily chores or responsibilities fell to household technology systems.
In present day, social media "connects" us to others, making it possible to interact with people around the globe—though, in many ways, it has deepened our isolation rather than alleviated it. We are far from a utopian society.
The problem with social media is that it connects us only to those who share specific interests, preferences, biases, and beliefs. It creates echo chambers where opposing viewpoints are often dismissed or ignored. Algorithms are designed to feed us more of what we want to see—more of what we already agree with. In this curated space, diversity of thought is often marginalized, leaving us in a bubble of like-mindedness that is comforting but ultimately limiting. We find ourselves surrounded by voices that affirm our own, yet isolated from those whose perspectives that may challenge or enrich our understanding of the world.
Consider it a wedge of ideology, trying to increase the separation between you and your neighbor. Lately it seems, this digital cocoon fosters only disrespect and isolation. When we only engage with those who think like us, it becomes easy to dismiss and dehumanize those with different opinions. The anonymity of social media makes it easier to lash out from behind a screen, without consequence, and we see this in our own small community.
Social media has allowed us to forget the basic civics lessons necessary for healthy, productive dialogue. When we misunderstand or misinterpret others' views, frustration and contempt grow quickly. And without face-to-face connection, it's all too easy to remain entrenched in our own biases, rather than engaging in genuine discourse for the betterment of our community.
It’s in this climate of disconnection that we see the role of volunteering and community involvement become even more crucial. Volunteering serves as an antidote to the isolation fostered by social media. It provides opportunities to step away from the screen and engage with the world directly. It allows us to create real, tangible connections—whether by working alongside someone in need or simply lending a hand to a cause that aligns with our values. In volunteering, we find a sense of purpose, a way to contribute to the community and make a difference. It’s an act of kindness that, often, can be returned, creating a cycle of mutual respect and support.
Perhaps most importantly, volunteering connects us to the very concept of "village." For most of human history, we lived in close-knit communities where everyone knew each other, where cooperation was necessary for survival, and where social bonds were formed through shared work, celebration, and mutual care. These villages weren’t just physical spaces—they were centers of connection, where we found identity and meaning in relation to others. We helped each other because we were all part of the same social fabric. Our actions mattered because they impacted the people we saw every day.
In contrast, modern technology has fragmented these bonds. We no longer rely on our neighbors for support or share a common purpose in the same way. We have become disconnected from one another, and that isolation has consequences for our mental health and overall well-being. People who are more socially connected are happier, healthier, and live longer. Human beings thrive on social interaction, not just with people who think like us, but with a variety of perspectives and backgrounds. A sense of belonging—whether through family, friends, or a community group—fosters happiness and helps mitigate the loneliness that has become so prevalent in today’s world. This happiness cannot be found behind a keyboard or the screen of your phone.
This is where individuals like Timmy Morrill exemplify the power of building real connections. Timmy's lifelong dedication to his community, from his work at Veterans Memorial Ski Area to his involvement with Mill City Park, shows that meaningful impact comes from rolling up your sleeves and engaging with others in real ways. This isn’t about a one-time contribution of your time for a feel-good selfie but a lifelong dedication to your community.
I first met Timmy when he was volunteering for PermaCityLife. He gave up his Saturday to help me clean up the vacant storefront that became Outdoor New England. He wasn’t looking for fame, cash, or recognition. He wanted to help his hometown, to make it a better place for those who live there, to enable a business to open in a dilapidated space. Over months, he continued to show up, and our friendship was created.
Timmy has been showing up for his community, as long as I can remember, but more importantly, as long as he can remember. His childhood winters were spent almost exclusively volunteering with his grandfather, Sheldon, at Veterans Memorial Recreation Area. The same place he is volunteering now, as the nonprofit's President.
His commitment to nonprofits, volunteering, and this community were strained and perhaps chilled on New Year's Day. Timmy belly flopped, as promised, from the top run of a ladder into the frigid water of the Winnipesaukee River. He didn't try to soften the blow, or shy away from impact. Timmy took it on the chin... Simply because he is a man of his word.
Timmy’s approach offers a powerful counterpoint to the isolation bred by digital platforms. He is actively involved in his community, volunteering his time, and working alongside others to foster change. By engaging in activities that improve the quality of life for those around him and providing a sense of self-fulfillment, Timmy is helping to reweave the social fabric that technology has unraveled. His actions exemplify the kind of connection we need more of in today’s world.
The future of human happiness hinges on our ability to reclaim the sense of belonging that villages once provided. We need to move beyond the digital distractions and the echo chambers of social media. By volunteering, showing kindness, and engaging directly with our communities, we can rebuild the trust, respect, and cooperation that once defined us. We must seek opportunities to be more like Timmy—actively participating in the world around us, fostering real connections, and helping to create communities where everyone has a place.
In a world that increasingly encourages us to retreat into our homes and digital bubbles, let us take a step toward rejoining the “village”—the place where connection, cooperation, and kindness are not just ideals, but the foundation of human happiness and collaborative success.
For those looking to dive deeper into how isolation and the lack of community are impacting us, I highly recommend reading Derek Thompson’s article, The Anti-Social Century, in The Atlantic.
And I also suggest the US Surgeon General's Final Report, "My Parting Prescription for America." It is solely about choosing community to find fulfillment.
As a community, let's love where we live, and if we don't, consider getting involved, making connections, and like Timmy (chest out, arms wide open) make a splash.
Check out the a limited edition "Make a Splash 2025" sticker. Your $5 donation will towards Mill City Park's mission to connect the community to the Winnipesaukee River. Let's make a splash together!
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