This week, The Happiness Group continued our exploration of the “paying it forward” theme, and piloted an activity called “The Pizza Project.” Distributing free pizza, cookies and fliers reading “pay it forward” to late-night studiers in Clemons, we were eager to familiarize others students with the concept of paying it forward, and to encourage them to do so themselves.
When the group entered the quiet buzz of the library laden with pizza and cookies, we immediately commanded the attention of those hard at work. The pizza’s aroma lured some students to us, and it was easy to find a platform to describe the mission of the Pizza Project and The Happiness Group’s philosophy. Although this project was never going to spark a monumental revolution in students’ attitudes, it was meant to serve as a checkpoint to all those who observed the power of kindness. Hoping that the generation of goodwill in Clemons would encourage each participant to pay it forward themselves, we were equally determined for each observer to reflect on what the concept means. Ultimately, we wanted onlookers to ask themselves: in life, what really matters? What does it mean to be a part of a community? How can I make this community better?
“It was so great to watch the faces transform from confusion to joy when they realized they were about to receive free pizza,” one of the participants said. “Our gifts really changed the entire atmosphere of the library, and I definitely felt we left Clemons happier than we found it.”
Although many in the library initially doubted our motivations for distributing pizza, or thought we were a CIO interested in self-promotion, their surprise about “catch-free” pizza was almost as rewarding as their gratitude for the free food in the first place. With another successful pay it forward project under our belt, The Happiness Group is confident our community can take charge of this concept. If you see an opportunity to pay it forward, take it. If it the concept crops up in a conversation, explain it. If you are the individual that can change the tone of our community, do it. Everyone needs a little joy in their lives, and our community is no different. As one recipient of the pizza said: “Who knew pizza was a gift that keeps on giving?!”
As always, we welcome any new members. If you wish to be a part of the Happiness Group, or simply wish to share your thoughts or questions, send us an email at happiness@virginia.edu.
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