What are Open-Source Happiness Packets?
People are generally much more loved than we think we are. But while it's easy for many to complain when they don't like something, we're often fairly silent when things are good. Open-source communities are no different, especially when our main communication channels are textual and virtual.
However, the feeling that you made a difference, that your work matters and has value, and that the people you work with are happy to work with you, is an awesome and important feeling. With Open-Source Happiness Packets, we're trying to spread that feeling.
How does it work?
Openly expressing appreciation, gratitude, or happiness to other people can be difficult. This is especially true when you don't know them very well. Many of us come from cultures in which people are not open by default about such feelings, and naturally feel uncomfortable or even creepy to share them.
Open-Source Happiness Packets is a very simple platform to anonymously reach out to the people that you appreciate or to whom you are thankful in your open-source community. Your message can be sent anonymously if you feel uncomfortable to share your name with the recipient. Of course, we encourage you to share your name, but it's completely optional!
Happiness Archive
If both the sender and the recipient agree, we can publish the Happiness Packet on the website. With this, we're building an archive of open-source happiness that people and communities can use to draw inspiration.
As an example, here are two random messages from our archive:
Anonymous message
A long time ago, I met this guy who really liked Linux and open source stuff. Then I got to know him and I found out that he was also a cool guy with a really big heart. I'm really glad that I got to know you and I'm excited by all of the things you do in the open source community, both in RIT and outside of it. I have a strong appreciation for what you bring to the table and for helping build inclusive communities for others to have a part in something and contribute. Thanks for all of the awesome work that you do!
From Natasha to Matias
Hi Matias,
I wanted to thank you (although that doesn't seem nearly enough) for your help volunteering at try! Swift NYC two weeks ago. I was honestly blown away by how you took charge, made decisions, and went above and beyond what was asked of you to help make the conference a massive success.
Thank you ❤️,
Natasha