In times of despair and uncertainty, we must remember that it will not last forever.
Life has so many beautiful things to offer!
We are capable of finding meaning and purpose in the present and supporting those around us in difficult times.
Hold onto the possibility that something better is possible.
“The oak fought the wind and was broken; the willow bent when it must and survived.” — Robert Jordan
Let’s look at a few uplifting stories that inspire us to be hopeful in the face of adversity.
- An immersive form of poetry brings healing
- Community pitches in on wildfire relief efforts
- An ‘Uber dog’ is winning the hearts of passengers
- A huge community effort is underway to save animals from wildfires
Positively Uplifting Stories | January 20 2025
A poet shares empathy through her thoughtful words.
Typewriter poet Olivia Dodd invites strangers to share what’s on their minds. She then comes up with custom poetry in a matter of minutes!
Olivia’s ability to connect with guests instantly and translate their feelings into beautiful poems has touched the hearts of many. She believes everybody deserves to be listened to.
Having a safe space to talk about their life stories and deeper feelings allows people to feel closer and more connected.
“The basics of typewriter poetry consist of being able to be really present in the moment because you have to actively listen to the person in front of you. You need to make them feel safe enough to open up to you,” said Olivia.
This community rallies together to help support victims of Los Angeles wildfires.
A pop-up donation site outside the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California is providing essential items to victims of the Eaton Canyon wildfire.
It all started when a few food vendors came together in the stadium parking lot to donate food to those affected by the fire. Then more and more people started to bring clothes, food, water, toiletries, baby items, and other essentials.
Thanks to the many generous donations, victims are able to find some relief amid the devastating wildfires.
“Our house did burn down in Altadena, so we don’t really have anything – so just trying to get anything we can. It means the world to me. This is my community, and I’m so grateful to have them,” said Carlos Linares, a local resident.
A dog’s Uber adventures are bringing joy to people.
Kevin Ferman is an Uber driver from Colorado, whose co-pilot Bowie captivates passengers with his charm.
Also known as “The Uber Dog”, Bowie became a viral sensation after Kevin posted his videos on social media.
Bowie brings a lot of joy to the passengers, who beam with excitement upon seeing this adorable good boy in the front seat. Kevin posts wholesome reactions from passengers online, delighting people all over the world.
“It’s such a simple thing, but it really does make people’s day,” Kevin said.
Hundreds of animals are being cared for by rescue groups in Southern California.
California animal rescue groups are taking care of hundreds of animals displaced by wildfires.
While some were found stray, many of them are pets, whose owners could not evacuate with them.
All the animals in emergency accommodation are receiving treatment for burn-related injuries.
Donations are pouring in. The community is doing everything it can to help the animals displaced due to wildfires.
“The comfort that we can provide someone who is in distress, just knowing that their animals are cared for and safe, hopefully will give them a little reprieve so they can focus on other things they need to take care of,” said Ana Bustilloz, Director of Communications and Marketing at the spcaLA, a local animal welfare organization.
Have a Hopeful Week Everyone!
Did these inspiring stories set your mind a little more at ease?
Sometimes tragedy has a way of bringing people together, peeling away the surface things we think we need and reminding us about what’s really important – being safe, taking care of those we love and feeling like a part of a community.
And you are all a part of ours! Have a great week ahead everyone – and take care of yourselves.
Photo by Denniz Futalan
