The Essence of Luxury: Community, Simplicity, and Harmony
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by
OA
OAIn today’s fast‑paced world, we often forget that luxury once meant something far simpler. It was not about wealth or possessions, but about freshness, accessibility, and the joy of living in harmony with nature and community. Everyday living was filled with abundance yet modest.
Beyond the abundance of food and the accessibility of daily needs, there was another treasure: the values that shaped our way of life.
At the heart of OA way of life was a simple truth: we thrived because we depended on one another. The spirit of mutual care, mutual respect, and mutual belonging was everyday practices. Neighbours looked after each other’s children, communities shared harvests, and traditions reminded us that no one stood alone.
Mutual Care, Mutual Respect, Mutual Belonging
Mutual care meant extending kindness beyond ourselves—helping to plant, to cook, to build, and to heal. It was the assurance that someone would always be there, whether in times of joy or hardship.
Mutual respect was the foundation of harmony – honouring elders for their wisdom, respecting the earth for its abundance, and treating animals not merely as resources but as companions in the cycle of life. Respect created balance, ensuring that every voice and every being had its place.
Mutual belonging ties us together in ways deeper than blood – the sense of community that comes from shared meals, collective work, and the rituals passed down through generations. Belonging gives us our identity, reminding us that happiness is not an individual pursuit but a shared journey.
These values are timeless. In today’s world of rapid change and digital connections, we can still learn from this heritage. By practicing mutual care, respect, and belonging, we nurture stronger communities, embrace sustainable living, and rediscover the joy of simplicity.
