“..you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.” Philippians 4:8 (The Message)
Every day we share stories of hope – joy – Love! Enjoy some GOOD NEWS each day with LifeSongs. And if you know of some good news, share it here! Thank you for sharing hope each day with listener-supported, uplifting LifeSongs!
Friday, April 26, 2024
Michael was enjoying a Spring day with a ride on his scooter. At 32 years old, it had been a hard year and he was enjoying a joy ride – the wind in his hair. A stranger nearby noticed how much fun Michael was having and asked if he could give the scooter a try. Michael kindly said yes. But that person then took off with the scooter never to be seen again.
Michael reported the theft to Roseville Police but he was devastated. After meeting with Michael, Detective Sergeant Saddler and his partner Detective Coraci were so impressed with the heart of this young man that they decided to go and buy him the exact same scooter as a gift. Their Chief got wind of the plan and covered the expense out of his budget.
The theft victim said “It’s like a guardian angel came down and blessed me,” when the Police Department gave him the gift of a brand new scooter. And coincidentally, it all happened on his birthday!
Thursday, April 25, 2024
A group of teenagers in San Antonio saw a local need and worked together to help.
Teens Give Back San Antonio Texas began crafting sleeping mats using collected and cleaned grocery bags. Each mat takes nearly 1000 bags and hours to craft. So far they’ve completed over 50 sleeping mats and distributed them to unsheltered folks in the community.
Teens Give Back SATX are providing a small comfort, a little security, and re-using plastic for the homeless community in Southern Texas and have inspired many in their community to join in the good work.
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
When a tornado spun through Slidell, more help was needed and this time the neighbors answering the call were actually from a thousand miles away.
Operation Blessing is a non-profit emergency response non-profit out of Virginia Beach, VA. As Slidelians wrestled with low ball insurance offers to help clean up the mess, Operation Blessing started sending trucks and crews to get the work done – free of charge!
O.B. workers said that seeing hopeless faces find their hope again is why they choose to serve. And they are partnering with local churches and volunteers to get the entire area cleaned up.
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Tuesday, April 23, 2024
When Mehrad Houman lost his dog Mishka, he grieved. The family lives in San Diego, CA. Last July the dog went missing at her owner’s workplace. But Mishka’s story was not over.
Fast forward 8 months, and 2300 miles away in Harper Woods, Michigan – a resident noticed a stray dog wandering the neighborhood. After a vet checked for a microchip, they discovered it was Mishka! And her owners happened to be on Easter vacation in Minnesota, so they trekked over to Michigan to be reunited with their lost puppy!
Monday, April 22, 2024
If you have vacation plans in the south of Italy, you don’t have to settle for a t-shirt or expensive bottle of olive oil as a momento – you could get your very own Italian goat!
The tiny island of Alicudi off the Southwestern coast of Italy only has about 100 residents and an equal amount of goats that keep the grass trimmed. Recently the goat population exploded to six times the sustainable amount – so the mayor of the island created an adopt-a-goat program for anyone – literally ANYONE to have their very own Italian goat.
There’s an official form and small fee – but then you have to go catch your goat on the cliffs of Alicudi yourself.
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Today's Good News - Heroes & Helpers
Share your GOOD NEWS stories! Tell us about the Helpers & Heroes in your life - folks that make a difference - so we can share the good news!
Friday, April 19, 2024
Heather Bowers was preparing to leave her family and friends in West Virginia to be with Jesus. The wife and mom to two young kids was losing her battle with cancer, but still in good spirits. She was joking around with her friend Mary about their favorite vacation spot, the Outer Banks – and their tradition of eating at Mama Kwan’s, an OBX institution.
It’s a long six hour drive from West Virginia to Mama Kwan’s, but Mary decided to see if they could deliver food for her dying friend. Within an hour, Mama Kwan’s owner Kevin Cherry was in his car with a trunk full of food.
Heather and her friends and family were overwhelmed by the generous act. He was able to make it just in time. The Mama Kwan’s, trans-state delivery turned out to be Heather’s last meal – she passed away peacefully the next day.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Tim Tebow and his wife Demi-Leigh are making headlines again, supporting a manufacturing company in Cincinnati. But it’s not the products being made that make it special – it’s the people.
Nehemiah Manufacturing produces products for Tide, Downey and Febreeze – but more importantly, they provide jobs and second chances for former convicts trying to reintegrate into society. And the company is growing and succeeding because of the great work being done by these hard workers.
The Tebows shared their involvement with Nehemiah Manufacturing, saying “Yes, it’s a manufacturing company, and they do an incredible job… But what’s special about it is that people and why we should believe in second chances is because Grace gave us all a second chance first, and we need to believe in giving people a second and a third and a fifth and an eleven-teenth chance. Because that’s what Grace is all about.”
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Last year, Joy Ryan and Brad, her grandson/traveling companion, checked off the 63rd and final U.S. National Park. Now Joy, who is 94 years old, has a new goal, to visit all 7 continents on the planet.
Joy and Brad just returned from Chile and the Galapagos in South America. This adventure to see and experience the world didn’t even begin until Joy was in her mid 80s. She lived almost her entire life in the small town of Duncan Falls, Ohio – where she and her late husband ran a gift shop and worked in a local grocery store.
It was her grandson Brad, a veterinarian with a longing to explore, who began taking her on road trips to see the United States. They loved traveling together and have now seen much of the known world in just 10 years time. From a shop girl to a woman who has hiked volcanos, floated with sea turtles and stood on glaciers. How inspiring!
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
Larry Farrish Jr. has worn a lot of hats in his career. He was a correctional officer and long haul truck driver. A few years ago he found his calling – bringing kids to school as a bus driver in Louisville, KY! He loves it – getting to know the kids and families and being a friendly face each day.
One morning he noticed a little boy named Levi not having a great start to the day. Normally Levi is a bright, happy child – but that one morning he was pretty sullen. Mr. Larry pressed to see what was up and it turns out Levi was sad because it was Pajama Day at school but he didn’t have any pajamas.
As soon as the kids were dropped at school, Mr. Larry ran to the dollar store and bought a couple sets of pajamas – taking them right to school for Levi. The little boy was so excited he started crying happy tears. The school administrators shared the good deed on Facebook bragging about how thankful they are for him – calling him a “top notch human.”
Monday, April 15, 2024
Zachery Dereniowski (@mdmotivator on Socials) has used his fame to do good for families all over the world. Recently he heard about a young Phillies fan who had fought brain cancer and MD Motivator set out to make his dreams come true.
Seven-year-old Samuel had brain surgery and chemo, ultimately beating brain cancer. He wanted to celebrate by going to opening day for the Philadelphia Phillies, so he set up a lemonade stand to raise money for tickets.
MD Motivator loves baseball too and when Samuel’s mom Lauren shared the story, he surprised the family with tickets to Opening Day – $1000 cash – and worked with the Phillies to give Samuel the most special day ever, getting to hang with the team ON THE FIELD!
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(Josh is in the bathroom sobbing after that video… 1. Because it is so awesome and sweet. 2. As a Braves fan, he HATES the Phillies.)
Friday, April 12, 2024
Sometimes a simple blunder might turn into the biggest blessing. That’s what happened thanks to an order typo made by Dan Dafydd, who was just trying to get an order of 80 chocolate Easter eggs to put on the shelves at Sinclair General Store – a small local grocer in the community of Sanday, on the Orkney Islands.
But one wrong click ordered 80 CASES of chocolate eggs – 720 total treats on an island with a total population of just 500 people. This was a pretty big whoopsie, but Dan thought up a raffle idea to use the excess for charity. It was an instant hit, paying back the expense and raising £3000 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, who operate along the British Isles like Sanday – saving lives each day.
Dan became a bit of a local celebrity – inspiring other fundraisers. Nestle got word of what happened and even offered to match bids and donations. So instead of a horde of melting chocolate after an innocent mistake, a community, a chocolate company and one baffled grocery store clerk raised tens of thousands of pounds to save lives!
Thursday, April 11, 2024
As children we learned the art of the deal not in business school, but by selling World’s Finest Chocolate and holiday wrapping paper in hopes of winning the class a pizza party. An elementary school in Ohio decided that instead of making kids and their parents sell things to their neighbors and co-workers, they would focus on serving their community in more practical ways.
Students create greeting cards in art class and then hand them out to their peers before the bell rings the next morning. They visit local nursing homes and listen to stories shared by elders. They pick up trash in the community and do other chores all with the goal of serving instead of selling.
With QR cards for donations along for the ride, the school has raised plenty of money – perhaps more than if the kids were selling buckets of popcorn or cookie dough – and they are making a difference in the lives of their hometown.
Wednesday, April 10, 2024
Wolf Cukier landed a coveted 2-month Summer internship at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland. His first assignment was to examine variations in star brightness captured by a satellite. That’s rocket science for menial busy work. But Wolf went all in – this is his dream job, afterall. That data collection busy work led to his discovering a brand new planet!
The newly discovered planet is about 7 times bigger than earth and has been named TOI 1338 b … at least until someone with an English degree gets ahold of the paperwork. It’s in a solar system some 1300 lightyears from Earth – and navigates dual stars – just like Tatooine in Star Wars.
Wolf still has a Star Wars poster up in his bedroom – and will likely take it with him next year to college. He’s just got to pick between offers at Princeton, MIT and Stanford.
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Tuesday, April 9, 2024
In Harlem, there are so many sights, sounds, smells and challenges. But nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Upper Manhattan, New York is a quaint book and toy shop called Grandma’s Place – and for many, it’s the heart of the entire community.
Dawn Harris Martine is known by most as simply “Grandma.” She’s the titular grandma of Grandma’s Place. The book and toy shop has been a dream come true for Grandma Dawn, who always wanted to create a sanctuary of safety and belonging for children in Harlem.
She’s been running Grandma’s Place for over two decades, calling it her “life’s work [and] passion.” For families browsing the store and kids running wild with toys – it’s like going to Grandma’s Place.
Monday, April 8, 2024
Laverne Biser is a 105 year old eclipse chaser. His lifelong passion has taken him across continents and into the company of unique people all wanting to stare at the sun. His first eclipse journey took him to the coast of Maine in 1963. He’s an accomplished photographer who makes prints of his solar exposure captures.
Laverne has traveled as far as Brazil to capture eclipses of the sun – but today, the Texan just has to go into his backyard.
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Friday, April 5, 2024
A pair of eight-year-olds at Chelsea Elementary in Maine started a very cool new trend that’s all about being yourself. It’s called “Dapper Wednesdays,” and every week, people who want to join in dress to the nines for a fashion-filled day.
The fashionable young men tell their peers that the important thing is that everyone feels good in what they wear. James Ramage says, “(You can) wear what you want and just say ‘ I don’t care if somebody bullies me. I’m who I can be.'”
The school’s administration loves it and has even started a “dapper closet” so any kid can find something fun to wear.
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Raising a family is hard – especially when you don’t have extended family around to offer support and free babysitting. Nina and her partner felt all alone after welcoming their daughter, Millie. So the new mom, wrestling with postpartum and isolation, asked her online community if anyone would like to become an adoptive grandmother.
Christine Artnott lives just around the corner from Nina’s family and immediately knew it was her calling to be a grandma to little Millie. In just six months since meeting, she is now forever Nanny Christine – who gets weely playdates and strolls in the nearby park with the family.
Christine is pouring out love into this young family, which is incredible. But hats off to Nina who had the courage to simply ask for help.
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Wednesday, April 3, 2024
Bob and Kim Gough have been without a permanent home since the middle of 2023. Bob is a Korean War veteran – he and his wife moved from Indianapolis to Cincinnati and have struggled to find a place they can afford.
But Kim is quite crafty. She began making bracelets and selling them in parking lots. Through the heat and the cold – she’s out there, making and selling bracelets, hoping to work their way to a home. Her husband Bob is getting medical care through the VA – which is a lifeline considering he is on 9 different medications.
New friends they’ve made in Cinci have shared their story and keep track of where Bob and Kim are selling bracelets so neighbors can support the couple. Many have banded together to keep them off the streets and in local hotels until they can find a place of their own.
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by a world of need – global disasters – the hurt and the hungry. Where do you even start to show you care? Well, volunteers at a Mountain Brook, Alabama church decided to make lunch.
A group of volunteers at Canterbury United Methodist Church wanted to DO something to help the hungry of this world, so they partnered with Rise Against Hunger and packed 200,000 meals in two days for people battling food insecurity.
This was back in 2011. Since then, the congregation has put together meals for over 1.4 million people. If that inspires you – volunteer with your church or through food pantries like Second Harvest. You can make a difference!
Monday, April 1, 2024
Teachers are heroes. Often the families of teachers are heroic too. An eighth grade science teacher has a secret weapon – a gifted daughter who can sew. When he noticed one of his less fortunate students with a tattered coat, he brought it home for his daughter to repair – which she was thrilled to do!
The 17 year old seamstress left a note in the pocket of the repaired coat letting the young 8th grader know that things would get better – and that if he ever needed anything to just let her or her dad know.
Can you imagine how loved that kid feels?! 8th grade may be hard – but life is a little easier with families like this.
Friday, March 29, 2024
It probably felt like an episode of 9-1-1, minus Rob Lowe. A three car accident in Louisville, KY left the front cab of a Sysco truck dangling off the side of a very tall bridge over the Ohio River.
Three dozen heroes from the police, EMT and fire departments frantically worked to rescue the driver of the truck as she dangled 100 feet in the air. Firefighter Bryce Carden repelled off the bridge next to the driver to offer words of calm reassurance during a rescue operation that took nearly an hour.
Carden was able to cut the woman out of her seatbelt, get her in a harness and then the crew above pulled her to safety. As Carden dangled next to the cab for the rescue, he prayed with the driver to help keep her calm. To her credit, the firefighter says that the military veteran driver listened carefully and helped in every way she could.
This weekend around the world – billions will rejoice because God rescued us from a danger far worse than a car accident. He is Risen. Have a wonderful Easter weekend.
Thursday, March 28, 2024
The Worcester Public Library in Massachusetts doesn’t want old fees to keep their clientele from a great new story. Couple that with their love of cats and you get MARCH MEOWNESS!
The Worcester Public Library will forgive any and all fees on your account if you just give them a picture of a cat. Any cat. You could draw it, cut it out of a magazine – doesn’t matter – as long as you appease these crazy cat lady librarians you are off the hook!
They’ve even put together a wall of cat photos from dozens of folks who were all too relieved to get rid of their book debt.
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Wednesday, March 27, 2024
The Atlanta airport is basically the size of a city – it’s huge and takes time to navigate. Unfortunately for Cindy Tutko, who had a connecting flight on her way home to Florida, she had to walk the miles of Hartsfield-Jackson International on a torn ACL.
A fellow traveler, Michael Wright of Lafayette, LA, also happened to be on the concourse when he noticed Cindy struggling with a heavy limp and even heavier luggage. Michael introduced himself and then shouldered Cindy’s bag and offered his shoulder as a support.
Michael – a total stranger – spent the next hour getting Cindy to her gate and on early boarding.
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
An Oregon homeless shelter received a pair of very unique shoes in their anonymous drop off chute. The gold Air Jordans were once worn by director Spike Lee to the 2019 Academy Awards – where he won his first Oscar. Of course, the shelter assumed they were knock-offs – but later were confirmed to be legit.
They auctioned off the rare shoes for over $50,000! That’s going to change a lot of lives at Rescue Mission – not to mention the publicity which has led to many more donations.
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Monday, March 25, 2024
From March Madness to March Gladness – the 2024 Coach of the Year award goes to 4-year-old Christopher Bess. When Christopher’s pre-k held a career day, he showed up in crisp khakis, a pressed polo and whistle to emulate his dad – a varsity basketball coach in Tarboro, NC.
Christopher idolizes his dad, Coach Reginald. He’s often dressed in matching fits courtside at games with his dad – and is known for giving his 4 year-old version of a pep talk to the high school ballers before their home games.
Lil Coach Bess is gonna be a team leader his entire life
Spring Shareathon 2024
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Every gift makes a difference – $10, $20, $100… and monthly gifts have a continual deep impact!
CLICK HERE to give now!
Monday, March 11, 2024
We all know Arby’s has “the meats” and amazing curly fries and that Jamocha shake … oh yeah. Turns out Arby’s also has a big HEART. The roast beefery just wiped out all the lunch debt for four Atlanta area school districts – over $200,000. And that’s just the tip of the curly fry for Arby’s.
A big wig for Arby’s parent company, Stuart Brown says about the $1 million investment in families, “Childhood hunger is something that no one should ever have to face, and school lunch should be a time that kids look forward to without worrying if they’ll have a meal that day.”
Friday, March 8, 2024
Melanie called the Greenville Public Works office in a last ditch effort to recover her precious diamond wedding ring after accidentally dropping it in the trash. She simply asked them if the ring popped up in the recycling process to please give her a call … or give her a ring, we could say.
I’m sure Melanie felt hopeless – but something in her voice triggered the sanitation workers of Greenville – because they volunteered to dump their entire garbage truck and comb through the mess hoping to find the lost ring.
After HOURS of combing through garbage, the ring was found! Melanie was called and she joyfully sped over to recover her lost wedding band and pose for pictures with the crew who went way above and beyond for her!
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Thursday, March 7, 2024
Jo Westwood was a lady dealing with grief and illness. It had been a rough season of life. One day on her weekly trip to pick up groceries at her local Aldi’s she accidentally left her bank card at home and didn’t have enough cash on hand to pay for her food.
Before Jo even had time to become overwhelmed, a kind hearted store assistant named Lisa stepped in and offered to cover the difference. Jo was so astounded by the kindness she nearly burst into tears. It all became a haze of kindness – she isn’t even sure she said thank you in the moment!
Ms. Westwood said, “..it honestly meant the world to me. It only takes one act of kindness to help someone in need… I think this lady [just] knew.”
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
On a snowy mountain you might experience the rush of a lifetime, gliding down a mountain on parallel pieces of wood strapped to your feet, but you never know when the world could collapse around you. Loren and Ben were skiing in the Palisades when the world went totally white in an avalanche!
The seasoned skiers knew not to panic and were able to dig themselves out of the snow. Taking stock of their location they looked for other skiers and managed to rescue another two skiers nearby. From vacationers to heroes in the blink of an eye!
You don’t have to dig anyone out of a mountain of snow to be a hero for LifeSongs! Just give for Spring Shareathon – and you might just win a tropical vacation, where there is ZERO chance of an avalanche.
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
Despite retiring from the basketball limelight, Shaq’s acts of kindness — such as paying for others’ purchases when he’s out shopping — continue to endear him to many. Shaq is just trying to model the life of resilience and selflessness lived out by his mother, Dr. Lucille O’Neal.
Shaq shares that his own definition of wealth comes from her example of uncomplaining hard work and dedication to family, which he witnessed throughout his upbringing. His achievements and affluence are rooted in the ethical and compassionate lessons imparted by his mother.
Shaq’s life is Luke 6:38 lived out in size 22 sneakers. “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap.”
In a world of me-first, it’s uplifting to see a sports icon like Shaq crediting his mother for his spirit of generosity. It’s the sort of family value that makes you want to give mom an extra hug. And live out generosity with LifeSongs – by supporting us during Shareathon!
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Monday, March 4, 2024
The Pelicans are good. Like really good – in a tough Western Conference, they are truly contenders this season. A lot of that is due to the leadership of veteran CJ McCollum. And McCollum doesn’t just lead on the court – he wants his adopted home of New Orleans to have a bright future.
The Pelicans star has put up $1 million to form the McCollum Scholarship Program to specifically get New Orleans high schoolers through college. And after that? The McCollum Scholarship keeps going – providing mentorship as the college graduates look for jobs and start their grown-up lives!
CJ McCollum says his time at Lehigh University was formative through struggle – playing ball and balancing academics. He wants to encourage other leaders in New Orleans to invest in the future so that kids in difficult situations can see there is a better life and get the help they need to achieve their goals.
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Friday, March 1, 2024
A group of kindergarteners fill the role of enthusiastic spectators as their friend Xavier, self-proclaimed “fastest kid alive,” dashes from the school bus to his home each day.
The children onboard the bus enliven Xavier’s daily sprint with their dedicated chants, rooting for him with heartfelt vigor. Meanwhile, the bus driver understands his contribution to nurturing a joyous space for these children — the impression he leaves on their mornings and afternoons is one of happiness and cheer.
The bus load of kindergartners form a cheer squad for their friend Xavier. Each day after school, these pint-sized fans chant encouragement as Xavier dashes from the bus to his home. Their enthusiastic support is so punctual and spirited, Xavier’s mom knows the bus has arrived by the chorus of her son’s name. It’s a wholesome reminder of the simple joys of childhood and the big impact of a little support—truly a cue for us to cheer on one another in our daily races.
Thursday, February 29, 2024 (Happy Leap Day!)
In November, Michigan couple Adyson and her boyfriend Evan were climbing up into a deer blind when it suddenly collapsed and crashed 15 feet below. While Evan was able to walk away from the accident, Ady had broken her back and was paralyzed.
Ady was rushed to the hospital – after surgeries and months of rehabilitation, Ady has regained much of her mobility. It was her fierce determination that she survived round after round of physical therapy – and her devoted boyfriend Evan was by her side the entire time.
When Ady was able to walk down the hall to check out of her rehabilitation hospital, the doctors and staff lined the hallways to applaud her incredible recovery – and she was greeted at the end of the hall by her boyfriend – on one knee – with a ring.
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Wednesday, February 28, 2024
A hiker along the Lanipo Trail in Hawaii saw a dog barking all alone along a steep slope. After rescuing the dog, first responders noticed a bag about 70 feet down the slope – and still further down, after a coordinated manhunt, they discovered the dog’s injured owner at the bottom of the gulch.
The dog’s owner, a 35 year old woman, had fallen during a hike and had significant injuries. She was airlifted to safety and is recovering largely because her faithful puppy companion refused to give up!
Looking for a new family pet? There’s an overflow in local pet shelters. CLICK HERE to learn about the next furry member of our family!
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Picture this: You’re in the grocery store, your toddler’s about to lose it, and the checkout line seems miles long. That’s exactly where Mary-Ann Byrnes found herself, but instead of descending into chaos, something incredible happened. A supermarket worker saw the meltdown brewing and offered her a lifeline—letting the tot scan groceries!
Yep, she swooped in, picked up the little one, and together they started scanning items, turning tears into giggles. Now there’s a checkout story that didn’t end up with everyone in aisle five needing therapy.
Here’s to the unsung heroes of the checkout line turning a potential nightmare into a dream! Sometimes all it takes is a simple gesture to make everyone’s day. What a beautiful reminder that a small act of kindness, like helping a stressed mom in the grocery store, can make a world of difference.
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Monday, February 26, 2024
Weddings are full of emotions, and bride Natalie experienced an especially touching moment thanks to a thoughtful gesture from her mother.
In a moving tribute to Natalie’s late father, her mom arranged to have a piece of his blue t-shirt expertly shaped into a heart and sewn into the wedding dress. But this hidden “something blue” carried even deeper sentimental value. Stitched onto the heart was her father’s handwriting from Natalie’s old yearbook that said, “I Love You Natalie, Daddy.”
When Natalie discovered the heart, it created a powerful moment, where the presence of her father was felt in a unique and touching way on her wedding day. It not only brought Natalie to tears, but there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
Friday, February 23, 2024
A firefighter named Al found himself behind a distressed woman at the local grocery. Al said, “When they rang her up… she didn’t have enough money to cover her essentials. So, she said ‘my cats will eat before I do.'” Al wasn’t having that. He stepped in without hesitation. Al not only paid for her groceries but also recognized a need within the community.
He went home and spoke to his wife and together they established a mobile pet pantry to support those facing financial hardships.
Fast forward to the present, and “Bo Lends A Paw” has become a beacon of hope for pet owners in their town of Salem, New Jersey and beyond. The nonprofit, named after the couple’s dog Bo, travels to various churches, fire departments, and community areas with a trailer loaded with pet supplies.
Al said, “We can help people feed their animals so they can save money and feed themselves.”
The nonprofit’s journey from a grocery store act of kindness to a fully-fledged pet pantry serves as a testament to the power of one person’s compassion to ignite positive change within a community. You never know when you’ll have a chance to “lend a paw.”
Thursday, February 22, 2024
Next time your dog is digging a hole in your yard, it might be more than just a nuisance.
When four-year-old husky Kobe started digging a sizable hole in the front yard, his owner Chanell initially dismissed it as typical dog behavior. But as the hole grew, so did Chanell’s concern. Recognizing that Kobe’s actions were unusual, she trusted the husky’s judgment.
Chanell had recently had a gas leak repaired in her home, so she used her new gas detection device to assess the newly excavated hole. And her instincts were right, gas was detected and she promptly contacted authorities.
Chanel said, “We were told it could’ve caused serious health effects like respiratory issues, brain damage, and even death. They told me that something as simple as a light switch turning on could’ve caused an explosion, too!”
During the repairs, workers discovered three main gas leaks in the neighborhood. They praised Kobe for being a good boy.
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
A professional ice hockey team in Pennsylvania broke a franchise record last week, not for goals scored, but for the number of teddy bears tossed onto the ice by fans to help local kids.
In the second period, the Hershey Bears scored a goal, the announcer screamed, “Let the sweet cuddly mayhem commence!” and the plush pandemonium began.
The annual Teddy Bear Toss collects toys for charity and this year over 74 thousand stuffed toys were thrown by fans in the stands onto the ice. Since its inception in 2001, the tradition has collected nearly a half million cuddly creatures for children in need.
After a 40 minute delay to cart off all the toys, the Hershey Bears went on to an overtime victory.
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Edgar Rico and Sara Mardanbigi love their community in East Austin, TX. It’s a hard place to live though – with lower incomes and often no access to fresh produce. When they opened up their taco shop, they wanted to do more than just serve up delicious TexMex – they partnered with the city to be a Free Fridge Program spot.
Twenty times a day they would have to refill the free fridge with water, produce and other essentials – just trying to meet the many needs of their community. This past summer – the hottest on record – there was a clerical error with the city that caused the power to be cut off to the shop. But the community wasn’t about to let them close down.
Fundraising efforts have poured in almost $120,000 so far! Strangers and patrons have sent notes to the restaurant owners that it is now their turn to take care of them. The taco shop is back open and even better than the food – is the heart of this community.
Monday, February 19, 2024
Jesse Orsborn is a GOOD boss.
Jesse manages a Costco. It’s not uncommon for an employee to oversleep early morning shifts, so he sometimes has to give Wake Up Calls. He shrugs it off, knowing how hard it is to get up and moving some mornings. But when he called one of his employees and they could barely speak – he knew something was up.
Jesse and his assistant manager kept the employee on the phone and called emergency services. Their friend and employee was having a stroke and they had miraculously called at just the right time. The man is now on a long road to recovery – but he’s alive thanks to his very GOOD boss.
Friday, February 16, 2024
Mario and his son-in-law Nivardo were out cruising the shallows hoping to find a new fishing hole in Northwest Indiana. What they found was a man in need. 27 year old Matthew had run off the road 6 days earlier and was trapped in his truck, paralyzed under the weight of the bent metal cab with his phone out of reach.
It was just the glint of metal in the distance that caused Mario and Nivardo to wander over to where Matthew had crashed. They were able to get help and rescue the man who had survived on rain water. While Matthew sustained severe injuries and had one leg amputated.
But this is a story of miracles. Surviving 6 days with only rainwater – in frigid temperatures – in the middle of nowhere. Matthew is grateful for his rescue and new lease on life. If you are in a situation that feels like the end – hold out hope, always!
Thursday, February 15, 2024
There are so many BIG moments in parenting. It starts early with first words and steps. Then the teeth start to fall out, they take the bus to school and before you know it, they are preparing for adulthood.
One father was happily watching his son at high school football practice. His son came over and told his dad to get some new TSU football shirts, because he just found out he received a full football scholarship!
Both big burly men, father and son, held each other and wept with joy over the accomplishment. A reminder, parents, to celebrate your children – they are a gift from God and show us new depths of love.
https://youtube.com/shorts/iLQ08U4T6fA?si=4CxcJE2fvqf3EcyE
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 – Happy Valentine’s Day!
A TikToker shared her story of grief after losing her long loved pet cat. Four months after saying her goodbyes, a stray kitten decided she was moving in. The cat kept sneaking into the home and curling up on the deepest spot of the couch – as if to say, “Hi, I’m your new best friend.”
Maybe a cat or dog has been a healing force in your life – or maybe an unexpected new friendship was a God given gift that lifted you out of a dark place. We’d love to hear about the ordinary angels God has used in your life – whether they are four legged or two. Check out LifeSongs on Facebook and Instagram to share and win movie tickets!
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Geoffrey Holt was a content man. The recently passed caretaker of a New Hampshire trailer park lived a quiet, humble life. He did not have a car – didn’t want one. He had very little furniture in his trailer – no television or computer. His closet was full of well-worn comfortable work clothes.
Geoffrey used to teach driver’s ed at a local high school, but he preferred to ride his bike or his riding lawn mower. He was a friendly face who enjoyed reading the daily newspaper and watching folks flit about.
When Geoffrey passed away, a well-kept secret was revealed – Mr. Holt was RICH. He left nearly all of his $4 million estate to the town of Hinsdale, NH – earmarked to go towards education, health, recreation and culture.
Monday, February 12, 2024
Pet sitting is a very generous thing to do for anyone – but you wouldn’t expect it to transform a life. Robert is an older man who agreed to pet-sit a family’s two dogs and one cat – Smokey, Oreo and Jennifer. It was just for a weekend, but it turns out, the nurturing presence of the animals helped spark Robert back to the land of the living!
Robert wrote a now viral letter to his neighbors thanking them for the chance to care for their pets. He wrote about losing his dad to cancer, growing old and having no family or meaning in his life. But the life that Smokey, Oreo and Jennifer brought into his home has helped push him out of hiding from the world and into new relationships.
Just by getting out of his house to walk the dogs, he made new friends at a local park. He even adopted a couple of dogs himself with a new lease of life.
I went on a vacation 2 weeks ago, and let my neighbor babysit my pets. Shortly after I got back home, I received this letter from him in the mail that made me smile and cry. I’d like to share it here.
byu/SnooCupcakes8607 inMadeMeSmile
Friday, February 9, 2024
Routine is important for many retirees. There are expectations to meet – people to greet – and coffee to drink! US Navy veteran Mr. Lee gets breakfast EVERY SINGLE DAY at the Scenic 90 Cafe in Pensacola, FL. He earned his leisurely mornings of greeting friends and travelers after 30 years in the Navy.
Not used to simply being served, Lee tends to help pick up around the diner – and has become the morning staff’s go-to guy for preparing coffee filters. He’s a part of the team now. And to celebrate his 90th birthday in March, the staff will put out balloons and birthday cards at his regular table.
And you can even send Mr. Lee a birthday card by mailing it to:
The Scenic 90 Cafe
701 Scenic Hwy.
Pensacola, FL, 32503.
And if you are curious, Lee always orders the same breakfast: An over-easy egg, cheese grits, a biscuit and sausage.
Thursday, February 8, 2024
Gary Leung lost his sight as a young adult. That sent him into a deep depression. But he didn’t stay in that deep despair. Through encouragement from family and friends – and a determination from his very soul, Gary became a distance runner.
Now in his 50s, Gary has completed a 62-mil Antarctic Ice Marathon – the first blind person to accomplish such a feat! He’s run the Ultra Gobi, the toughest race in the world AND ran the length of Japan, 2300 km, in 40 days!
Gary shares his stories to inspire others with physical differences, and raises funds for a variety of services to help young people with critical illnesses. Losing his sight turned out to not be the end of his life, but rather what God has used to inspire countless people.
I bet God could use your struggle to change lives too.
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Willis Gibson is the teenager who beat Tetris. The game doesn’t have a true ending – but Willis pushed up to level 157 and it became too much for the computer to handle, which crashed the game. It’s the first time a human has ever accomplished this feat.
So don’t worry so much about A.I. We still have the power to take down the machines.
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Retired U.S. Army sergeant major Eugene Peterson recently celebrated 101 years of living at Travis Air Force Base in California. His key to a long life, Peterson says it is Dr. Pepper! But his daughter says more practically, it’s because he “doesn’t let any moss grow under him.” Meaning he just doesn’t stop!
Sergeant Major Peterson was drafted in 1941, serving in the Philippines and Vietnam. After 59 years of protecting freedom around the world, Eugene traded fatigues for the uniform of the US Postal Service, where he worked another 14 years! And he’s spent the last 14 years volunteering at Travis Air Force Base in the Health Information Management office, making sure service men and women get the healthcare they deserve.
Monday, February 5, 2024
Giving gifts is a skill. It’s a love language. And it is something Abigail Oviedo of Grayslake, IL is really good at. She got her parents some really sweet Christmas this year. It wasn’t from their grown-up wish lists though. Abigail surprised them with the gifts they always wanted as children!
She captured the sweet moment and shared it with millions online, when her parents opened their Christmas presents. Her father unwrapped a toy Coca-Cola truck and her mom got a brand new Easy-Bake Oven. They both expressed pure joy before starting to cry in deep emotion.
Abigail told reporters “All I was thinking was that it was their turn to feel that childlike joy.”
@abby69oviedo giving them what they thought they could never have my mom’s smile is so beautiful #greenscreenvideo #greenscreen #christmas #parents #gift #presents #present #santa #love ♬ Flowers Christian Basso – lin Music
Friday, February 2, 2024
The flames, smoke and overwhelming heat scarred and melted many pieces of jewelry on Hawaii’s big island last Summer. But sometimes that isn’t the end for priceless family jewels. A jewelry store owner has restored over 150 pieces, with a backlog of 300 more.
No Ka ‘Oi Jewelers has been restoring recovered jewelry for residents – for free – since the fires wiped out hundreds of homes in 2023. Owner Omi Chambi considers himself lucky to still have a home and a store – and wants to make sure his community rebuilds. For his part, he’s rebuilding the memories damaged by the flames.
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Kevin Ford never missed a day of work at a Las Vegas Burger King – always covered his shifts, and sometimes the shifts of his co-workers. For 27 years! To celebrate his decades of hard work, his manager presented Kevin a gift basket containing movie tickets, candy, a coffee mug and other assorted presents.
Kevin was thankful for the gift basket, but when the internet got wind of his 27 year bonus – they wanted more for the cheerful good worker. His daughter launched a GoFundMe for her dad and strangers around the world rewarded Kevin with over $400,000! With that overwhelming gift, Kevin was able to buy his first home.
Kevin told his supporters thank you, adding “Remember, love yourself, because I love you. God bless you and thank you.”
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Back in 1987, Ted Friedli was a college football player for Arizona State University. In fact, as a freshman, he was on the squad that beat Michigan in the Rose Bowl that year!
But his time as a student athlete was cut short and he never actually graduated college. Not until 37 years later! Thanks to a Sun Devils For Life scholarship for former student athletes, Ted was able to go back to school and finish his degree in Sociology. He found out about the program from a random Facebook post. His three kids and his 86-year-old mom attended his graduation.
Having a stroke in his 50s led to Ted’s return to school. Again, life is rarely a straight line. But never stop chasing those dreams when opportunity arises!
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
When Lydia and Andy moved from New York City to Honolulu, HI a couple years ago, they didn’t know a soul. But they were pleasantly surprised when they heard a piano being played next door. They didn’t mind the thin walls because the music was a delight. The couple went next door to introduce themselves and ended up making their first friend in their new community.
Next door lived 95 year old Derek Peart. Mr. Peart played music, in part, to grieve the loss of his wife. Meeting this fresh faced couple from New York was something he needed too. The trio began having what they call Dinner and Show nights together. Lydia and Andy provide the food, and Derek the entertainment!
The tradition has brought all of them much joy over the last several years. When Lydia shared their story online, and posted videos of Derek tickling the ivories, their story spread around the globe! And Derek really gets a kick out of the fact that he is playing piano for millions of fans around the world now.
@honolululyd Replying to @C so much love!!! For everyone wanting more- here is another dinner and a show from earlier this year, featuring more of Derek’s favorite songs! #piano #pianomusic #pianotok #concert #musicislife #musicislove #kapuna #elderly #hawaii #hawaiitiktok ♬ original sound – lyds
Monday, January 29, 2024
Every neighborhood watch needs not just vigilant homeowners, but at least one dog with a great sniffer. When it was 3 AM and everyone was asleep, one pup’s hyperactive nose saved lives and homes.
It was early morning in Arlington, VA when a doggo named Lucy went on high alert – barking loudly – which was very unusual. The dog owners stumbled awake to see what was the matter and saw smoke and flames at their neighbor’s house. 9-1-1 was called – the flames were put out and there were no injuries!
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