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Our Earth can be a rough place. But you don't need me to remind you of it. The media is already full of stories about anger, deceit, and wreckage. And while we can't ignore our problems, hoping they might just go away, we do sometimes need a break from them.

To remind you that there's still plenty of goodness in this world, Bored Panda put together a new list of feel-good posts from all across the internet. Personal growth, empathetic relationships, we included everything. But if you scroll through the publication and your heart still needs more warmth, fire up our earlier renditions of wholesomeness here, here, and here.

#1

I Don’t Need This Anymore! After 16 Surgeries To Fix A Birth Defect And Years In A Wheelchair I’ve Finally Been Cleared To Start Walking

I Don’t Need This Anymore! After 16 Surgeries To Fix A Birth Defect And Years In A Wheelchair I’ve Finally Been Cleared To Start Walking

I’m not very good at it yet, it’s painful, and can’t go far distances but I can walk! Thank you for reading - I’m very excited.

PadmeASkywalker Report

COVID has posed a threat not just to our bodies but our minds as well. But it's quite difficult to determine increases in cases of depression and anxiety because of a lack of data. However, despite these gaps, a team largely based at the University of Queensland in Australia has tried to come up with an estimate for 2020, and the numbers are devastating.

If the pandemic had not happened, the model used by the researchers suggested there would have been 193 million cases of major depressive disorder worldwide, whereas an estimated 246 million cases actually occurred, a 28 percent increase, or an added 53 million cases. For anxiety disorders, the number of cases was anticipated at 298 million, but there may have been as many as 374 million cases—a 26 percent jump, representing an additional 76 million cases.

According to clinical psychologist Seth J. Gillihan, Ph.D., anxiety can come from any situation we care about when the outcome is uncertain. "Common sources include our health, relationships, finances, work, time pressure, and social situations, among others," the creator of The CBT Deck for Anxiety, Rumination, & Worry, a set of cards that helps people to find equilibrium and focus on what they love, told Bored Panda.

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"Anxiety is our mind and body's way of getting our attention and telling us to pay attention to something important. Unfortunately, anxiety is often an unwelcome and unpleasant experience because it can be so uncomfortable and even overwhelming."

#2

Today I Got Married And No One From My Family Came To My Wedding Because It Was A Gay Wedding. Well, The Good Thing About Life Is That We Get To Choose Our Own Family

Today I Got Married And No One From My Family Came To My Wedding Because It Was A Gay Wedding. Well, The Good Thing About Life Is That We Get To Choose Our Own Family

CleverSleazoid_ Report

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lolhall41 avatar
Lolly
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations!!!! Hope you have a long loving and happy life together

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Paula MV
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So happy for you! Surround yourselves with positivity.

tw72 avatar
tw 72
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am sorry that the family does not understand. Both people in the pic look very happy and very lovely. I am glad they found each other.

vgbishop421 avatar
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stacybeare avatar
Stacy Beare
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations!! And I hope you have many happy years together!! X

marjet_bosma avatar
Lady Lava
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It makes me sad that this is still happening to LGBTQ+ people all over the world. I feel so blessed that everyone I loved attended my wedding with my now wife. And also that no-one ever had any problem with the fact that I would find love with a woman, and especially with this particular woman. We are almost 15 years together and more than 12 years married. Love is love, and I really hope this whole world will see that someday!

tash-penpalling avatar
Tenacious Squirrel
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"We Get To Choose Our Own Family" - this is so true and needs to be taken notice of especially by all the people who only classify having children as a family.

jim7_1 avatar
James Pasquini
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was once told, "You have to LOVE your family... but you don't have to LIKE them." There's a lot of truth to that.

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Zoe's Mom
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Shame on them, good on you. May you both have many beautiful years and memories together. If you need anyone to join for holiday meals, I'm in. I'll bring the mash potatoes.

miaeccott avatar
Mia Eccott
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You guys look so happy, as ya should on your special day! Congratulations from wexford, ireland. In regard to your family not showing up,(their loss) my gran who passed at 102 had a saying..... Look not for the flaws as you go through life or even when you find them, tis wise and tis kind to be somewhat blind and look for the virtue behind them. ( I dunno maybe talk to them about it again, maybe ye could come to an agreement to accept but disagree with each others beliefs? Theirs are archaic bless them, but it's how they were brought up.) hope ye guys have a great first Xmas as a married couple!

stevenessex avatar
Triv
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'll be your family. Invite me to the reception and I'll bring several tasty and fattening desserts, all homemade!

mikerodrick avatar
Mike Rodrick
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry to say this but your family blows! Congrats on your wedding.

gristled avatar
Heather Iger
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So happy for you both! Congratulations! Know that there are so many people out there that are thrilled for you and celebrate your love.

andvand avatar
Andrea Delden
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have gone and cried and given you both hugs! ♥️♥️

debsburto avatar
Debbie Burton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aww... I went to my daughter's wedding 3 weeks ago, first gay wedding I have been to. All of both family were there xx (except those in other states)

ritchat7 avatar
Ritchat
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just imagine how many people reading this would have loved to come to your wedding. I was totally thrilled when my 2 best girlfriends finally go married after being together for over 10 years.

annegainesville avatar
Anne Roberts
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So sorry that your families chose to miss out on this wonderful occasion. People fall in love with who they fall in love with, and you both look so happy. Best wishes for a great future together! ❤️

jbitzenh avatar
Jamie Bitzenhofer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congrats! I hope the family comes around, but, if they don', build a beautiful one yourselves.

9360swilli avatar
Susan Williams
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Marriage is difficult as it is without being snubbed by family. Grow up, people. this is not the middle ages nor is it the middle east. We are more enlightened, now. Right?

kim_lorton avatar
Kim Lorton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We certainly can! Congratulations on your marriage! May you have a great one!

bexta_greeley55 avatar
Becky Greeley
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You deserve better.Now you can continue forward and surround yourself with people you choose- Best wishes for a great life

miss_sammi_dee avatar
Shelley DuVal
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations. You will make a new family from your friends. You will know who they are when you meet them.

mary-rives-71 avatar
Mary Rives
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

May your chosen soul family thrive as well as your marriage! Congrats!

dodsonmichelle avatar
Celtic Pirate Queen
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'll be happy to be a "surrogate" sister! Michelle from San Diego, CA

hans_buiskool avatar
Hans Buiskool
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Such a disgrace that bigotry like that still exists.. I hope the two of you will be very happy together !

marciaclark4 avatar
Marcia Clark
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations. You make a beautiful couple. Sorry you were alone on your special day. They will be full of regret down the road that they missed such an important day in your lives.

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Petra Biedermann
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So the family's love was conditional on tradition.......so sad! I am very happy that you found each other, have a wonderful live!

hubris62 avatar
Johnny Guido
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Everyone should have their chance at happiness! Families start at two people.

jonnamomma85 avatar
Jessica Marino
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have came. I would have celebrated. I am doing a little dance for you right now. CONGRATULATIONS 🎉👏

perryclouse avatar
Perry Clouse
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So Sorry To Hear How Narrow Minded People Can Be.....Wishing You Guys A Very Happy Life Together

54b1758c9974d avatar
Lynne Stankard
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's their loss. Congratulations on your wedding and a very happy life ahead for you both xx

gale41_1 avatar
Alan Gale
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sometimes, family is just a buch of people that you happened to grow up with.

bobbiemeyers avatar
Bobbie Meyers
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes...the family you choose is usually better than the one you're stuck with.

bamfitrn avatar
Ashley Caradine Bartley
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish there was a way to register to celebrate with someone. Heck yes I will support you!! I would be happy to go to your wedding!!

joan_jenkins_372 avatar
Joan Jenkins
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good for both of you .dont need bigots in family .there more than enough already in this world

evie_cooper4 avatar
Evie Cooper
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Handsome Couple! I hope you have a long and happy life together

jabs76 avatar
Apryl Starr
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am sorry. Enjoy your life with your husband. I hope you succeed in everything you choose to do.

jabs76 avatar
Apryl Starr
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am so sorry. Celebrate your life and have joy with your husband. Good luck in all that you do.

lynmoffett avatar
Lyn Moffett
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

𝓑𝓮 𝓮𝔁𝓽𝓻𝓮𝓶𝓮𝓵𝔂 𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓹𝔂 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝓮𝓪𝓬𝓱 𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓫𝓮𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓫𝓲𝓰𝓸𝓽𝓼 𝓫𝔂 𝓵𝓲𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓵𝓲𝓯𝓮 𝓪𝓼 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓶. 𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓭𝓸𝓷'𝓽 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓼𝓸𝓻𝓽 𝓸𝓯 𝓷𝓮𝓰𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓿𝓲𝓽𝔂 𝓖𝓸𝓸𝓭 𝓵𝓾𝓬𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓰𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓾𝓵𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼 𝓽𝓸 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓫𝓸𝓽𝓱

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Maryjohn deBrun
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Handsome couple! Congratulations and best wishes from Canada. Love long and prosper!

inaschweitzer avatar
Ina Schweitzer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you get a do-over, I'll adopt you and then attend the wedding. Your family is missing out; I feel sorry for them.

nalasimba avatar
nala simba
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wonderful, except that they look like father and son! Can no-one else see the resemblance?

estherhcohn avatar
Esther Cohn
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My gay daughter’s wedding to her wonderful wife was joyful for my husband and me and our entire family. What awful, bigoted, sad people to boycott their child’s wedding. Much happiness to the loving couple!

estherhcohn avatar
Esther Cohn
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We were front and center with our entire family at our gay daughter’s wedding to our wonderful daughter-in-law. My sister presided. It was a joyful occasion. How sad for your bigoted parents.

alohasas06 avatar
Susie Swearingen-Kamachi
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sad your “family” didn’t come to your wedding but glad you didn’t let them stop you and your love! Congratulations 🎈🎊🍾

dinastavola avatar
BabaBizzle
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your blood “family” is s**t. Your CHOSEN family is LOVE! Congrats to the gorgeous and happy couple!!!!

sarah_a_tate avatar
Upstaged75
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If that's how your family feels, then they don't deserve the privilege of having you in their life. I will honestly never understand people like that.

tangeemcw avatar
Tangee Wilson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations! I would have been there. It would’ve been wonderful I’m sure!

jppurves avatar
JP Purves
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is not because of who you are or anything you've done. Your family is at fault. They are not going to have the pleasure of knowing your husband or your children, if you choose to have them.

jegprods avatar
Janna Gelfand
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The ONLY losers are the family members who refused to attend!!! Your chosen family is better than any blood-line family you could hope for!!! Congrats on your marriage!!! I hope you have a slew of kids, because your family needs more of YOUR genes!!!

clanmorello avatar
Lynn Morello
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So sad that your biological family cannot grow enough to celebrate your loving relationship with your chosen partner. I say, congratulations to you both for being able to move past this upsetting stage of your life. Maybe, one day, those who turned their backs on you, might re-think their ethics. In the mean-time, Celebrate without them.

lesburleson avatar
Leslie Burleson
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations . I'm sorry your family sucks , I hope the family you choose gives you all the love you deserve

j_rugani avatar
Jessica Rugani
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So sorry your families feel that way. Congratulations! Everyone deserves to be happy and loved!

suebradleytimmy avatar
Sue Bradley
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish I could have come to your wedding, you seem so wonderful together, I'd be honoured to have been a part of it Xxx

xiavthegoat avatar
Jesus Christ
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope you guys have a wonderful life together <3 love is love

lharwood29 avatar
LJ Harwood
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations and best wishes!!! Great picture, you both look so happy.

virgilblue avatar
Virgil Blue
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So the family chose hate. That path leads only to the dark side. You chose the light.

naluh_2 avatar
Naluh Maués
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, they are the one who lost a beautiful demonstration of real love! Congratulations for your wedding!

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Queen Boudicca
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Best wishes to you both. I hope you have a lifetime of happiness.

bubs623 avatar
Beth Arriaga
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And there are tons of moms and dads, brothers, sisters, aunts and uncles who will happily and proudly stand in for your wedding. This mama would have cried and rejoiced in your union and love.

snapshot1111940 avatar
Ronald Morrison
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations! Sorry about your family's attitude. Hopefully they will learn acceptance!

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Gabrielle braswell
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations i wish you bot a long healthy happy wonderful life 🌈

sneum21 avatar
Umi chan
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aww I wished I could come but I to busy but I support u all !

nicoletta-karam avatar
Nicky
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You both look so handsome! What a beautiful couple! (I live in SF - it's so much better out here!)

leelamar avatar
Lee Lamar
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish we were acquainted. I would have joined and threw flowers instead or rice for you two 🖤

olape avatar
Ola Pe
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It is their huge loss, not yours. Congrats! You look very happy together👍

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Andrea Owen
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations and I hope your family missed an amazing day.

liamtranum avatar
Liam Tranum
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It’s sad they didn’t come but screw them, happy marriage!!

ohjojo62 avatar
Joanna Werman
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations. Choose your own family. Perhaps they will find love eventually and recognize love you too have for each other. Have a marvelous life together

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lara
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm so sorry. I would have come and brought a gift and danced at your wedding.

jmchoto avatar
Jo Choto
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations, and wishing you many years of happiness together surrounded by people who love and honour you.

adammanley avatar
Adam Manley
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations on your wedding. Wishing you both a life of happiness. It's an honour to be a guest at a wedding and clearly the people who didn't turn up didn't deserve such an honour.

marcoconti avatar
Marco Conti
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So you share a few more genes with them than with the rest of us. Big deal. You have your own family now. All the best to you.

tanjajonk77 avatar
Tanja Jonk
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am so glad I was raised right, and I get to raise my daughter right too! Love is Love.

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TheVioletDragon
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am sorry you're family doesn't support your happiness but it's great yoy found each other

lynmoffett avatar
Lyn Moffett
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations and good luck to you both. If people can't be happy for you not support you then you're better off not having them in your life

linda_riebel avatar
Linda Riebel
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have come.... so would a lot of good folks. Here's to the groom and groom!

luisa_vasconcelos avatar
Legen ( wait for it ) dary
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Banda Familie is all here to wish you both all the best... For this life and all the other ones.

danpadgett avatar
Dan Padgett
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Should have made it an open invitation. I would have turned up :)

frostyfoxxoburry avatar
Frosty Foxxoburry
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

congratulations! sorry about your family though, but i wish you a happy life!

sarah_bell avatar
Sarah Bell
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Congratulations!!!! Just remember if they can't be bothered to support you then your are not obligated to help them when they need you. Unfortunately people like your family who can't even be bothered to be happy for you always wonder why you won't drop everything for them when they are in need. I'm sorry that your having to deal with this but your right! You do get to pick your family at times and definitely get to pick your friends and it looks like now your best friend is your family. ♥.

garyfrench avatar
Solidhog
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My family would love to be your surrogate family and share your happiness and love.

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Suz66
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow, that family sounds awful! No need to keep them in your life. Good friends can be family.

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GeeGee
Community Member
2 years ago

This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

You also have to respect their choices.

penelopegold1972 avatar
Penelope
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’m sorry? You want the marriage couple to “respect” homophobia and hate? I don’t think so.

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David Smith
Community Member
2 years ago

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Probably won't have to worry about going to your kids' wedding.

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#3

Rejected From Police Training For Being "Too Friendly"

Rejected From Police Training For Being "Too Friendly"

ElkShot5082 Report

Sheryl Paul, who has an MA in Jungian Counseling and has guided thousands of people worldwide through her books, courses, private sessions, and blog, reassured Bored Panda that everyone has anxiety. "It's built-in to our biology and is part of our evolutionary survival mechanism," the author of The Wisdom of Anxiety said.

"But the most common causes of anxiety I see in modern life are among highly sensitive people who struggle with the fear of loss or death and the need for certainty. This can be triggered around parenting, money, relationships, identity, the planet — in short, the things that matter most to us. Anxiety is the psyche’s way of letting us know that we’re in danger, so it serves an essential evolutionary function. We run into trouble, however, when we misinterpret symptoms of anxiety — racing heart, shortness of breath, tight chest — as true, physical danger instead of understanding that most likely the danger is internal."

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"For example, people who find their way to my work often struggle with relationship anxiety ... which causes them to spiral down a rabbit hole of trying to figure out if they're with the 'right' person. It's the wrong question and can lead to mental torture. Is there danger in intimate relationships? Absolute. But if you're with a safe partner the 'danger' is pointing to unhealed beliefs and wounds around love and intimacy which are then projected onto the current, loving partner."

According to Paul, anxiety manifests itself in other areas in a pretty similar way: "we project our inner sense of unsafety and vulnerability onto health or kids or work or money or the earth. Everything changes when we understand the concept of projection and can start to take true responsibility for what needs attention inside."

#4

This Veterinarian Has A Comfort-Dog Assistant That Helps Sick Patients Know That Everything Will Be Alright

This Veterinarian Has A Comfort-Dog Assistant That Helps Sick Patients Know That Everything Will Be Alright

W0LFPAW Report

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happyhirts avatar
Mad Dragon
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

“It’’s gonna be ok. Vet has done this hundreds of times. You’ll see your human shortly.”

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#5

Enjoying A Beautiful Hike After Finding Out That There Is No More Stage 4 Colon Cancer In My Body

Enjoying A Beautiful Hike After Finding Out That There Is No More Stage 4 Colon Cancer In My Body

thestringguru Report

#6

An 87-Year-Old Woman Called The Police Emergency Number In Florence, Italy, Saying She Was Alone And Hungry. This Was The Result

An 87-Year-Old Woman Called The Police Emergency Number In Florence, Italy, Saying She Was Alone And Hungry. This Was The Result

Doxep Report

Sheryl Paul said that modern anxiety often manifests as a misguided attempt to find solid ground. An attempt to answer fundamentally unanswerable questions. "The anxious mind believes that if it can land on the 'correct' answer it can find certainty, and that certainty equals safety. The truth is that there's very little that's certain in our day-to-day lives, and certainly, the future is always uncertain," she explained.

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"Everything feels even more uncertain right now because of the pandemic and the other systemic issues that have been brought to light these past couple of years, but life has always been uncertain because loss and illness and death exist. The highly sensitive person, who is the person most prone to anxiety, has known this from an early age (the most common early sign of anxiety in highly sensitive children is the fear that their parents will die)."

The good news is that these methods work. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) claims that anxiety disorders are highly treatable. But the bad news is that only 36.9% of those suffering receive treatment. The approaches that have proved to be effective are therapy, medication, complementary and alternative treatment, and transcranial magnetic stimulation.

Paul, for example, teaches both on-the-spot tools and deep-dive practices for working with anxiety. "On-the-spot tools are things like Tonglen, which is the Buddhist practice of breathing into the pain or fear and breathing out the opposite. Over time, this helps us re-wire the mind’s habit of pushing away things that are uncomfortable. A significant part of breaking free from anxiety’s stronghold is learning to tolerate discomfort, which means making room for the uncomfortable thoughts and feelings as they arise."

The deep dive practices, on the other hand, hinge on growing what the counselor calls a solid and reliable inner parent or wise self "who can choose which thoughts to respond to and learn how to meet big feelings with compassion."

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"Growing spiritual practices that help tap into a sense of trusting life can also be life-changing when struggling with anxiety, for anxiety’s most salient message is that life isn’t safe," Paul said.

"One of the strongest tenets of my work is that anxiety is a protector and a messenger. If we try to get rid of the symptoms too quickly, we miss the message, which is often pointing us in the direction of unhealed places inside that need attention and also an invitation to grow trust. As I often say in my work, the opposite of uncertainty isn’t certainty; it’s trust. And that’s self-trust, trust in others, and trusting in something bigger than you."

#7

Proud Of Myself. After Months Of Severe Depression And Anxiety, Followed By A Suicide Attempt And A Hospital Stay, I’ve Worked On It In Therapy And Now Have A New Job. Wish Me Luck

Proud Of Myself. After Months Of Severe Depression And Anxiety, Followed By A Suicide Attempt And A Hospital Stay, I’ve Worked On It In Therapy And Now Have A New Job. Wish Me Luck

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Gillihan said that anxiety's power lies in its ability to affect our whole being—our body, mind, and spirit. "Our bodies will feel the tension and stress that anxiety creates, as our sympathetic nervous system turns on to prepare us for action and our hormone system releases chemicals like cortisol. Our minds feel the strain of anxious thoughts and worries about everything that could go wrong. And our spirits feel the weight of anxiety, which can be a crushing experience when it's really high," the clinical psychologist explained.

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So it's important to actively fight it.

Gillihan summarizes his approach to anxiety in three stages which he collectively calls 'Think Act Be.'

"THINK means tend to anxious thoughts, and question the ones that tell us bad things are going to happen. Usually, those thoughts aren't grounded in reality. While bad things do happen at times, our fears don't come true the vast majority of the time. Notice the stories your mind is telling you, and ask yourself if there's another possibility for how things might go—including that things turn out pretty much okay."

Then there's ACT. This includes gradually facing our fears without any actual danger and stopping anxiety from controlling our actions. "Any time we avoid something that causes anxiety, we strengthen our fear [response] and make it more likely that we'll avoid it in the future. Facing our fears makes them shrink," Gillihan highlighted.

"And finally, BE means focus on the present and open to your experience exactly as it is. Anxiety is about the future, so being in the present and noticing your senses tends to decrease anxiety. Opening to your experience can also help to calm the nervous system, since you're no longer fighting to make sure things turn out okay. Just let things be as they are and be willing to give up the control that was never really yours to begin with."

As William S. Burroughs has famously said, your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.

#10

After I Found Out My Girlfriend Was Pregnant I Signed Up To Rehab For My Addiction. Last Week I Became A Father And Picked Up My 3-Month Coin

After I Found Out My Girlfriend Was Pregnant I Signed Up To Rehab For My Addiction. Last Week I Became A Father And Picked Up My 3-Month Coin

Best week of my life.

Moby-King Report

#12

I'd Been Giving My New Neighbor's Dogs Treats And Scratches Every Morning When I Headed Out To Work. This Is My Kitchen Window When I Woke Up On My First Day Off

I'd Been Giving My New Neighbor's Dogs Treats And Scratches Every Morning When I Headed Out To Work. This Is My Kitchen Window When I Woke Up On My First Day Off

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#13

Afghanistan: They Will Not Go School Without Their Sister

Afghanistan: They Will Not Go School Without Their Sister

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#14

Before And After Beating Cancer. 2019-2020-2021

Before And After Beating Cancer. 2019-2020-2021

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#15

"Dumbledore's Bookshelf" Quilt; Happy With How It Turned Out

"Dumbledore's Bookshelf" Quilt; Happy With How It Turned Out

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#16

I Designed A 3D Printed Mirror Array To Propose! The Mirrors Are Angled So That Just Before Sunset, They Reflect The Sunlight To Spell "Marry Me?"

I Designed A 3D Printed Mirror Array To Propose! The Mirrors Are Angled So That Just Before Sunset, They Reflect The Sunlight To Spell "Marry Me?"

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#17

My Mum Finally Escaped An Abusive Relationship And Found Herself A Little Place. No Furniture Yet But She Just Sent Me This And I’m So Proud

My Mum Finally Escaped An Abusive Relationship And Found Herself A Little Place. No Furniture Yet But She Just Sent Me This And I’m So Proud

_pixieonthemoon Report

#18

This Little Girl's Rock Displayed In My Local Museum

This Little Girl's Rock Displayed In My Local Museum

TheAdmiral Report

#19

Animals Really Are Man’s Best Friends

Animals Really Are Man’s Best Friends

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Mad Dragon
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A similar thing happened to my daughter! She fed some crows her leftover breakfast for a few months last spring and one of them brought her a paper clip and then a soda tab!

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#20

That’s A Hero Right There

That’s A Hero Right There

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kristina law
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh my heart....don't cry don't cry don't cr...too late. So so happy for you lil one

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#22

90-Year-Old Grandfather With Dementia, Hugging My 4-Year-Old Son. Grandfather Who Can't Remember Us Most Days Said "I Really Love This Kid, I'm Glad He's Here"

90-Year-Old Grandfather With Dementia, Hugging My 4-Year-Old Son. Grandfather Who Can't Remember Us Most Days Said "I Really Love This Kid, I'm Glad He's Here"

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#23

Whenever We Foster A Singleton Kitten, Our Dog Becomes A Foster Mama

Whenever We Foster A Singleton Kitten, Our Dog Becomes A Foster Mama

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#24

While Walking His Dogs, A 71-Year-Old Man Had A Seizure. These Two Dogs Saved Their Owner

While Walking His Dogs, A 71-Year-Old Man Had A Seizure. These Two Dogs Saved Their Owner

One of the dogs immediately sat next to the man protecting him, while the other dog went to find a passerby he could alert and bring to the scene. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes.

keswickmrt Report

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M.Kate Kelly
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you ever see a service dog without its human, follow it and it will lead you back to its owner, who is probably in some kind of physical distress

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#25

A Heartwarming Conversation From Twitter

A Heartwarming Conversation From Twitter

campervanliving , moleysoton1 Report

#26

Lost 200 Pounds During Covid. Today I Completed A Half Marathon

Lost 200 Pounds During Covid. Today I Completed A Half Marathon

FatherVic Report

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#27

Good On The Neighbor For Looking Out Though

Good On The Neighbor For Looking Out Though

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#28

Really, Get Her That Pony

Really, Get Her That Pony

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#29

After Years Of Tooth Pain And Hiding My Smile, I Got Dentures! They Literally Made Me Smile

After Years Of Tooth Pain And Hiding My Smile, I Got Dentures! They Literally Made Me Smile

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K
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You look amazing! Years younger and very handsome!

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#30

Have PTSD And I Struggle With Being Outside. This Is My "I've Been Walking In The Woods 2 Days In A Row" Smile. Small Steps Forward

Have PTSD And I Struggle With Being Outside. This Is My "I've Been Walking In The Woods 2 Days In A Row" Smile. Small Steps Forward

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#31

The Guy Who Does The Grass For My Building Left A Rectangle Of Wild Flowers So The Bees Can Use Them

The Guy Who Does The Grass For My Building Left A Rectangle Of Wild Flowers So The Bees Can Use Them

Gaddanger Report

#32

Before And After: My Daughter Battling A Combination Of RSV, Rhino Enterovirus, And Bacterial Pneumonia. She Almost Died, But She’s Now Home Safe And Sound

Before And After: My Daughter Battling A Combination Of RSV, Rhino Enterovirus, And Bacterial Pneumonia. She Almost Died, But She’s Now Home Safe And Sound

DeceptiKHAAAAAN Report

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Mazer
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The power of ducky sheets 🦆 congratulations, wishes for a long and healthy life together.

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#33

I Ditched Going To My In-Laws So I Could Have Thanksgiving With The Stray Cat That Lives In My Garage

I Ditched Going To My In-Laws So I Could Have Thanksgiving With The Stray Cat That Lives In My Garage

Mookadonia Report

#34

Ron Came To The Vet Clinic As A Stray. After A Few Weeks, He Started Making Rounds To See Patients, And Would Sit Next To Any Pet While They Were Asleep, Offering Comfort

Ron Came To The Vet Clinic As A Stray. After A Few Weeks, He Started Making Rounds To See Patients, And Would Sit Next To Any Pet While They Were Asleep, Offering Comfort

northfieldvethospital Report

#35

I Am A Big Brother With Big Brothers Big Sisters. Here Is The First Day I Met My Little Brother And The Day He Served As My Best Man - 6 Years Later

I Am A Big Brother With Big Brothers Big Sisters. Here Is The First Day I Met My Little Brother And The Day He Served As My Best Man - 6 Years Later

Illhavethegabaghol Report

#36

My Husband And I Celebrated 10 Years Of Marriage Today

My Husband And I Celebrated 10 Years Of Marriage Today

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#37

My Daughter Is Obsessed With Halloween. We Bought Her A Skeleton Costume For Her Birthday And She Insisted On Putting It On Immediately, With A Birthday Hat

My Daughter Is Obsessed With Halloween. We Bought Her A Skeleton Costume For Her Birthday And She Insisted On Putting It On Immediately, With A Birthday Hat

ArinaMae Report

#38

10 Days Ago, Somebody Poisoned My 11-Year-Old Fluffball Leon In My Own Garden. Against All Odds, He Made It Through

10 Days Ago, Somebody Poisoned My 11-Year-Old Fluffball Leon In My Own Garden. Against All Odds, He Made It Through

He is back home recovering from caused trouble for a while longer. The vet called him a miracle; so proud of you my grumpy old kitty.

Fluffy_Dragonfly_ Report

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K
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Special place in hell for the scumbag who did that

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#39

Bad Times Pass But Good Acts Remain

Bad Times Pass But Good Acts Remain

BBCYaldaHakim Report

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Rez Fidel
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

God f*****g damn... the west f****d this up big time. Shameshameshame..

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#40

Everyday This Guy Walks By Our House And Lifts Up His Dog For A Look At Our Neighbor's Rabbit

Everyday This Guy Walks By Our House And Lifts Up His Dog For A Look At Our Neighbor's Rabbit

Zogramislath Report

#41

3 Years After Becoming Paralyzed From The Chest Down, I Am Now Able To Stand After Getting A Special Frame That Allows Me To Do So

3 Years After Becoming Paralyzed From The Chest Down, I Am Now Able To Stand After Getting A Special Frame That Allows Me To Do So

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Cactus McCoy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How the heck does this work? looks like some kind of transforming wheelchair?

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#42

Good Taste In Music Brings Neighbors Together

Good Taste In Music Brings Neighbors Together

binhcao Report

#43

This Big Brother Helps His Baby Sister Use The Doggie Door. He Stands There And Lets The Baby Go Through His Legs

This Big Brother Helps His Baby Sister Use The Doggie Door. He Stands There And Lets The Baby Go Through His Legs

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#44

The House Was Way Too Quiet While The Foster Kittens Were Out Having Playtime And My Boyfriend Was Supposed To Be Watching Them. I Found Everyone Like This

The House Was Way Too Quiet While The Foster Kittens Were Out Having Playtime And My Boyfriend Was Supposed To Be Watching Them. I Found Everyone Like This

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#45

Donated My Swimmies To My Sister's Girlfriend And I'm Now A Proud Uncle To My Donor Child

Donated My Swimmies To My Sister's Girlfriend And I'm Now A Proud Uncle To My Donor Child

pavignon Report

#46

Be That One Today

Be That One Today

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#47

New Woman, Same Phone Case

New Woman, Same Phone Case

DanielleDawnX Report

#48

Missing Cat Owner Posted A Follow Up Where The Previous Missing Posters Were

Missing Cat Owner Posted A Follow Up Where The Previous Missing Posters Were

Coffygrier Report

#50

My Best Friend's "Not Engagement" Announcement I Just Got In The Mail

My Best Friend's "Not Engagement" Announcement I Just Got In The Mail

RSParker Report

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