"If most of us valued food and cheer above hoarded gold, it would be a much merrier world"

Imagine a world where our happiness isn't tied to how much money we have but instead to the simple joys of life—like sharing a meal with friends or laughing until our sides hurt. That's the heart of this quote. It's about valuing experiences and human connections over material wealth.

This idea isn't new. In fact, it was penned by J.R.R. Tolkien in his novel "The Hobbit," written during the early 20th century. At that time, the world was grappling with the aftershocks of the Great Depression and the looming shadow of World War II. People had seen firsthand how the pursuit of wealth could lead to destruction and unhappiness. Tolkien's words offered a different perspective—one that emphasized joy and community.

So, how does this play out in real life? Picture this: A small Italian village where everyone gathers for a weekly communal dinner. There's laughter, music, and the smell of home-cooked food wafting through the air. No one's talking about their bank accounts or their latest purchases. They're too busy enjoying each other's company and the delicious food on their plates. This village, despite not being wealthy, is rich in spirit and happiness.

You might be thinking, "That sounds nice, but how do I apply this in my own life?" Start small. Make it a point to have regular meals with friends or family. Put your phone away and really engage with the people around you. Share stories, laugh, and savor the moment. You don't need a fancy restaurant—your kitchen table will do just fine.

Here’s a little story to illustrate the concept. I once knew a guy named Joe. Joe wasn't rich. In fact, he worked a regular job and lived in a modest apartment. But Joe was the happiest person I knew. Why? Because he valued experiences over things. Every Friday, he'd invite friends over for "potluck dinner." Everyone brought something to share, and the night was filled with good food, great conversation, and plenty of laughs. Joe's apartment might have been small, but it was always filled with joy.

Now, Joe could have spent his money on upgrading his apartment or buying new gadgets. But he didn't. He chose to invest in relationships instead. And you know what? People loved being around him. His happiness was contagious.

The takeaway here is pretty simple: Prioritize people and experiences over accumulating wealth. It doesn't mean you shouldn't strive for financial stability—of course, that's important—but don't let it overshadow the things that truly make life worth living.

So, next time you're tempted to work late for that extra cash, think about what you're giving up. Maybe it's dinner with your family or a night out with friends. Those are the moments you'll look back on with a smile, not how much money you had in the bank.

In essence, let's cherish the simple joys, the food and cheer, and make our world a little merrier.