Today’s Good News

In Blog, Home Page, Outreach by Josh

“..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!

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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.”

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Today's Good News - Heroes & Helpers

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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!

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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A post shared by DR. SHAQUILLE O’NEAL Ed.D. (@shaq)

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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A post shared by College Beyond (@collegebeyond)

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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A post shared by Inside Edition (@insideedition)

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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A post shared by Mary Ann Byrnes (@maremare711)

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.

 

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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