Independence Day, 2018. Lately the news has been pretty bleak. This year we lost more kids to gun violence. We separated children from their parents at our border. We refused to serve our neighbors because of their lifestyle preferences, political beliefs or who they work for.
While we have some things that need fixing right now, I have hope that we will work on it. On that note, let’s focus on the positive…
The speed at which people organize to help others in a crisis never ceases to amaze me. Whether it is helping victims of natural disasters, such as last year’s hurricanes and wildfires, this year’s volcanoes erupting, or the recent separation of immigrant families, people rush to the aid of those in need.
As we celebrate the 4th, here are some things that we can feel good about:
- I recently read a Facebook post about Alaska Airlines flight passengers helping to assist a blind and deaf passenger. You can read about it here. If you can find passenger Lynette Scribner’s Facebook post about this, it is worth reading. It will bring you joy.
- This all-girls teen engineering team designed solar-powered tents to help shelter homeless people.
- 50 States 50 Lawns helps mow lawns for those in need and is involving kids in the effort!
- This Three Dreams film will remind you of how much is possible.
- You can take a guided hike in Guatemala (with gorgeous scenery) and the proceeds go to a school and safe house for local disadvantaged kids.
- Researchers have created a peanut butter based amoxicillin that treats diseases, helps prevent malnutrition and doesn’t require refrigeration.
- Goodness: The Phoenix Commotion (in Texas) builds whimsical houses out of recycled materials. The owner trains unskilled laborers and the houses are built for single parents, artists and families with low incomes. Here’s a Facebook video of the owner talking about his projects.
Happy 4th!
About the photo: American flag