A singleminded devotion to living "The Good Life"
Perhaps the most well known back-to-the-landers are Helen and Scott Nearing who have written extensively about their experience living what they term "the good life". The Nearings began their simple life on a farm in Vermont in 1932. In 1952 they moved to Forest Farm on the coast of Maine, where they lived until their deaths. The cycles and rhythms of nature were their guide as they successfully provided for over 80 percent of their own needs. Their approach, which has been replicated by thousands of "pilgrims", was distinct in the equality that they gave to work and play or contemplation.
For more information check out the efforts being made to keep Helen and Scott's mission alive at The Good Life Center