A Small Good Thing examines how “the American Dream” has come to the end of its promise. “More” no longer brings happiness. Over the last fifty years, as our standard of living has improved, our happiness has not. The film tells the stories of people moving away from a philosophy of ‘more is better’ toward a more holistic conception of happiness — one based on a close connection to their bodies and health, to the natural world, and to the greater good.

Set in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, long a destination for change-seekers, spiritual explorers, artists, and musicians seeking solace amid the pastoral landscape — perfect for renewing personal and universal bonds.  The film follows innovative farmer Sean Stanton, social work student Tim Durrin and yoga teacher Mark Gerow, whose earlier careers in the armed forces have now shifted to service of a different kind; Jen and Pete Salinetti, a college-educated couple with two small children who have chosen to be farmers as a way to connect with their community; and Shirley Edgerton, community activist and founder of both the Youth Alive Step Team and the Women of Color Giving Circle. These people share a deep desire to have more meaning in their lives, a closer bond with their families and communities, living in a more meaningful way, with a connection to themselves and the natural world. Traveling to Rwanda, we see how an organization provides lasting agricultural solutions to chronic childhood malnutrition. Commentary by Bill McKibben, Jeremy Rifkin and others are uplifting. The film explores how working in small but meaningful ways, we can overcome obstacles to happiness – the isolation of suburban comfort as well as the despair of poverty – to create joy for ourselves and others.