Sometimes the news can be, well, not so inspiring. When headlines get you down, it’s important to remember that positive things are still happening all around us. Here are five hopeful and encouraging stories to pay attention to this week:
A Black History Month Tradition Turns into Something More
The past few years during Black History Month, one mother has been dressing her daughter as a different famous Black woman each day of the month. Sasha Bonner began the creative tradition as a way to inspire and bond with her daughter, but the annual event has grown into something much bigger. Riley has dressed up as many inspiring Black women, from Misty Copeland to Beyonce to Amanda Gorman. Her mother, Sasha, hopes that by teaching her daughter about these powerful women, she knows she can do whatever she sets her mind to. Read more.
Junkdrop Gives Secondhand Items the Chance at a New Life
Walter Hindman and Colin Shephardson hated to see perfectly good furniture go to waste. So, the entrepreneurial 23-year-olds started Junkdrop, a company that redirects discarded items from people who no longer want them to those who could use them. The Nashville-based organization delivers couches, beds, and other big items to those in need. The work is tough, they say, but worthwhile knowing furniture will live on for those in need. Read more.
105-Year-Old Catholic Woman Credits the Rosary and Gin-Soaked Raisins for Her Longevity
One 105-year-old woman from New Jersey is inspiring us all to live a life rooted in prayer, and maybe a few gin-soaked treats! After contracting — and beating — Covid, Lucia Declerck credited her longevity and strength to the power of prayer. Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even her great-great grandchildren, are all astounded by her perseverance and faith. Read more.
What’s Lost Shall Be Found … on Valentine’s Day!
In an unlikely turn of events, a woman who lost her wedding band in the snow outside her Chicago home nearly 50 years ago has found it! Or, rather, a team of historians and some good old-fashioned Facebook connecting helped reunite the ring and its original owner. Karen Autenrieth and her husband Robert received the ring in the mail just in time for Valentine’s day, and Robert was able to place the ring back in its rightful place on Karen’s hand, surrounded by friends and family to witness. Read more.
Amidst Deep Freeze in Texas, Good Samaritans Went Above and Beyond to Help Those in Need
Despite the dire conditions faced by many Texans recently, these good Samaritans have been going out of their way to aid those in need as a result of the winter storm that left many in the state without power and water for days. From donating groceries and meals, to fixing burst pipes and opening warming centers, these Texans aided their communities in whatever ways they could. Read more.