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The chilly and dark half of the year is getting closer and closer, so we all need a bit of extra warmth and light in our lives. Fortunately, human beings have the ability to do amazing things that lift up our spirits and make us warm and fuzzy inside. So to get you feeling like the world is a magical place full of wonder, Bored Panda has collected some of the most wholesome stories from around the globe.

Remember to upvote your fave ones, dear Pandas. Also, we know that 2020 has been a tough year so far, but we’d love it if you could let us know what positive things have happened to you in the comments. When you’re done with this awesome list, check out our latest uplifting posts here, here, and here.

Staying optimistic helps us deal with whatever storms might come our way and reduces the negative effects of stress. The New York Times puts it best when it says that optimism isn’t about ignoring negative feelings, but it’s all about being hopeful for what the future might bring. So you don’t have to smile if you don’t feel like it—all it takes is some hope. However, hope and optimism aren't the same thing, as psychologist, priest, and published author Dr. Fraser Watts told Bored Panda. Scroll down for our interview with him.

#1

Today Oliver Stopped Me Dead In His Tracks And Turned Back Around To See This Picture That He Spotted! He Just Stared At It In Awe

Today Oliver Stopped Me Dead In His Tracks And Turned Back Around To See This Picture That He Spotted! He Just Stared At It In Awe

He recognized another boy like him, smiling and laughing on a display at Target. Oliver sees kids every day, but he never gets to see kids like him. This was amazing! I am so happy that other kids that pass through here with their parents, will see this! There is a lot of focus on representing diversity, but representing people with disabilities is just as important

Ollie's World Report

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Raine Soo
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So right, you are. Oliver is adorable. I hope he will always get the support he needs.

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#3

Helping Out Kids Without Fathers

Helping Out Kids Without Fathers

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According to Dr. Watts, optimism and hope aren't the same thing. "First, I need to make a distinction between hope and optimism, as Terry Eagleton does in his 2015 book called 'Hope without Optimism.' Optimism is more a matter of prediction. Hope is more a matter of attitude," Dr. Watts explained the difference between the two.

"In the present situation, I don't think there are any good grounds for optimism, and to be optimistic would be a retreat into a fantasy world," he pointed out. "However, even in present circumstances, it is possible and really helpful to maintain a positive, hopeful attitude."

Unfortunately, there's is no single surefire way of keeping that hope alive when things are tough. "Practice helps. It depends on a long process of cultivating a positive mindset. It is useful to be clear that hope does not depend on believing that everything is going to be fine. It is more an act of will."

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Even though most people don't distinguish between hope on the one hand and optimism on the other, the internet is full of advice on how to keep your spirits up even if things seem incredibly challenging. One of the ways to stay optimistic even when times are incredibly tough is sitting down and thinking about all the things that you’re grateful for having. Gratitude journals can help out with this, even though they might sound cheesy.

There are other ways to maintain your optimism, too. For example, Select Health stresses that taking care of yourself is vital when things are hard. That means exercising, getting plenty of rest, setting time aside for your hobbies.

And, yes, that even means treating yourself from time to time: whether it’s sinking into a hot bath after a long week at work or sneaking in an hour of video gaming in between doing homework (we won’t tell if you won’t). When you do what you love without guilt or shame, suddenly the world feels brighter, doesn’t it? As long as you don't overindulge, of course.

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#7

Uncle Looks So Happy

Uncle Looks So Happy

kennya_ramos Report

#8

Sadio Mane, The Liverpool Star Earning Approximately $10.2M Per Year Has Given The World A Lesson In Modesty After Some Fans Spotted Him Carrying A Cracked iPhone

Sadio Mane, The Liverpool Star Earning Approximately $10.2M Per Year Has Given The World A Lesson In Modesty After Some Fans Spotted Him Carrying A Cracked iPhone

His response is legendary:
“Why would I want 10 Ferraris, 20 diamond watches and 2 jet planes? What would that do for the world? I starved, I worked in the fields, I played barefoot, and I didn’t go to school. Now I can help people. I prefer to build schools and give poor people food or clothing. I have built schools & a stadium; we provide clothes, shoes, and food for people in extreme poverty. I give 70 euros per month to all people from a very poor Senegalese region in order to contribute to their family economy. I do not need to display luxury cars, luxury homes, trips, and even planes. I prefer that my people receive a little of what life has given me,” Mane said.

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Raine Soo
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sadio Mane is a humble man. He does not forget where he is from, and gives back to his community. You have to respect that. Good work, Mr. Mane.

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#9

My Dad Hasn’t Painted In Over 30 Years. Now That He’s Retired He Decided To Pick Up A Brush Again

My Dad Hasn’t Painted In Over 30 Years. Now That He’s Retired He Decided To Pick Up A Brush Again

Takayda0808 Report

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Louloubelle
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

With that kind of talent, how could you not do it in 30 years? It's almost painful to think about what stopped him. But good on him for doing it again! It's beautiful.

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Sinkvenice
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He hasn't painted in 30 years and that's what he comes out with?? That's the painting equivalent of a mic drop if ever I saw one!

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Frenchie
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh wow! That's beautiful! Enjoy retirement. Sell those locally, little cafes or local restaurants are always looking for local art. Some places will even put them up with price tags so those enjoying their meals can have the opportunity to purchase the art and take it home. Highly recommend. Hes clearly got talent and a great eye

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Wilf
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Let's just put a happy little bush in down there..."

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Irina Rachow
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would happily purchase that beautiful painting for my son who has autism and loves the forest.

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Remster Bingham V
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your dad is an insane artist! That is one good painting right there.

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Patricia Kasprowski
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wonderful! May he never again put down his brush. He has a gift worthy of being shared with the world.

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BusLady
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I need to take inspiration from him. I'm retired myself and I'm finally taking the time to do the things that I enjoy.

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Joseph DeLuca
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think we are missing the point that this father put aside something very important to him for a very long time because family was more important... in a similar vein I asked my 18 year old son for permission to skydive as I was putting his father's life at risk

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Teresa Groth
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Absolutely beautiful and wonderful art work, I am so glad you are able too get back too what you have a wonderful talent to do!

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Dorothy Cloud
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's sad that it took 30 years to get back to a God given gift..........

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Annie Wright
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sad to think of the years of talent wasted. I have no idea of his financial status, but judging by that photograph he could have raked in a fortune over those years, I wonder if his employment was so physically taxing that he had no energy to devote to his talented sideline

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Elaine Mattingly
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Pacients ! A man to be admired. An opportunity to enjoy and share his talent.

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Kikka io
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

but what a picture show. it was a real shame that he didn't keep painting

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Tammy Ralph
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Isn't it sad that we don't have time for things that we enjoy.

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Carol Coombe
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Terrific! You must be very proud, and he must be very fulfilled to be doing what he should have been doing all along. Congratulations.

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Dee
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a beautiful art. The picture is full of sunlight and air

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deanna woods
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like to color and draw and I have been doing a lot of that lately after not doing it for a long time. I can say that working on my drawing and coloring has really helped me with my depression and anxiety. Also your dad is a very good painter. I hope he keeps doing it.

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Jewell Martin
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good for him! Give him an art show in his house or a local store when he has a dozen paintings.

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Donald Holder
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wasted talent. At least he has something for his golden years that's meaningful to him.

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Sameena Shaikh
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

😳😳this is awesome... I can't believe this is Painting... ☺☺☺... May be u can post his another paintings too... He is best... 👌👌👍👍

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Uriel Grey
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh i love this! His work is beautiful and I would love to see more of it!!!

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Paul SD
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Greens are the hardest colour to get right. He's got talent :)

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Blatidae
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Amazing talent! I'm always jealous of those who can draw/paint. Stick figures are my limit. :( hope your dad keeps it up!

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Nicole Tomme
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wonder if he is classically trained. His skill is impressive. He is very talented.

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IrishGirl
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

all those happy little trees that were just waiting to be put kn canvas! ♥️🌳

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Dorothy Parker
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wish we could see his face. This is so lovely. We need more beauty and peace.

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80 Van
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Has he considered coming out of retirement, growing out his hair, and starting a show on PBS?

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Ashley Kirk
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is beautiful!! So glad he was able to find his talents still there and time to enjoy them!

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Joseph DeLuca
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a parent I can relate not doing something that is personally valuable for a long. Of time because you have responsibilities to your family I recently asked my 18 year old son for permission to skydive as I was putting his father's life at risk

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Darwinist
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ah, the skill to represent thoughts and places as a painting, which started evolving ever since the first person decided to represent that day with some clay and a brush.

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N G
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dad did the same. One of the first paintings he did in his 'renaissance' is now proudly displayed on my living room wall (the other is in my brother's living room wall)

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Destiney Torres
Community Member
3 years ago

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Things are always easier to bear when you’re surrounded by loved ones, Forbes points out. So even if you’re feeling down in the dumps or as blue as a Smurf, take some time to connect. Give your siblings a call or arrange to meet with a pal you haven’t seen in some time.

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This whole end-of-the-world business doesn’t seem as scary when you’re laughing and having fun with awesome peeps. Meanwhile, we hope that these wholesome stories will be enough for now.

#10

I Love You Mom

I Love You Mom

ashleymcnamara Report

#12

I Told My Grandma I Was Bisexual A Few Weeks Ago And Today She Gave Me This. My Grandma Made Me A Rainbow Sweater

I Told My Grandma I Was Bisexual A Few Weeks Ago And Today She Gave Me This. My Grandma Made Me A Rainbow Sweater

sunatjexd Report

#13

After Almost 2 Years Of Dealing With Traumas And Depression I Finally Got The Motivation To Clean My Room Entirely

After Almost 2 Years Of Dealing With Traumas And Depression I Finally Got The Motivation To Clean My Room Entirely

It almost took 9 hours, and 2 trash bags full with plastic bottles, pizza boxes and other trash. I'm proud of my work

used_air Report

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Pseudo Puppy
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

this is such an achievement for anyone dealing with depression. Makes my heart smile. <3

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#15

Thanks Frankie’s East Aside Restaurant For Doing The Right Thing

Thanks Frankie’s East Aside Restaurant For Doing The Right Thing

noahsygg Report

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Raine Soo
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

God bless you, Dan for your compassion and your kindness.

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#16

Single Dad In Thailand Wore A Dress To A Mother's Day Event For His Sons So That They Didn't Feel Left Out

Single Dad In Thailand Wore A Dress To A Mother's Day Event For His Sons So That They Didn't Feel Left Out

kornpat.sukhom Report

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#18

And All Of Those 12 People Are Happy For You

And All Of Those 12 People Are Happy For You

katyhelend Report

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Sue Hazlewood
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well now it is a lot more than 12 who know and share your happiness. Congratulations

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#19

Doctors Told Us To Make Preparations For Losing Her, But After 5 Brain Surgeries My Baby Had Her First Disney Trip At 3 Years Old

Doctors Told Us To Make Preparations For Losing Her, But After 5 Brain Surgeries My Baby Had Her First Disney Trip At 3 Years Old

Veatchdave Report

#20

Dr. Mohamed Mashali Was A Well-Known Doctor Based In The Northern Egypt. He Was Awarded With The Title “Doctor Of The Poor” For Serving His Community For Over 50 Years

Dr. Mohamed Mashali Was A Well-Known Doctor Based In The Northern Egypt. He Was Awarded With The Title “Doctor Of The Poor” For Serving His Community For Over 50 Years

Mohammed Mashali once found a child that suffered from diabetes and needed insulin shot but couldn't afford them, so he asked his mother to buy him some. Sadly his mother could not afford them either and the child passed away. After this, he moved to one of the poorest countries and began treating medical patients free of charge. He passed away on July 28, 2020. Days before his death he was still helping everyone he could

MyNameIsPer Report

#21

He Guarded A Bird With Broken Wing Under My Truck For Four Days Before It Could Fly Off

He Guarded A Bird With Broken Wing Under My Truck For Four Days Before It Could Fly Off

Had to bring them both food and water because he refused to leave its side day and night, very proud of him

MasturbatingMiles Report

#22

I Live In My Van. Found This On My Windshield This Morning

I Live In My Van. Found This On My Windshield This Morning

ryannefromTX Report

#23

I Too Got Vaccinated Despite Having Anti-Vax Parents. Finally Got My Last Immunization Shot

I Too Got Vaccinated Despite Having Anti-Vax Parents. Finally Got My Last Immunization Shot

PKBeNess Report

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#24

The Left One Is My Art. Found The Drawing On The Right In My Little Brother's Room One Day

The Left One Is My Art. Found The Drawing On The Right In My Little Brother's Room One Day

Jojoes Art Report

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Nicolas Pilot
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Imitation is the highest form of flattery. Beautiful art pieces, both of them!

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#25

Lost My Car Key While Jogging On The Rail Trail, Went Back Looking For It And Stumbled Upon This. I Owe My Whole Soul To Whoever Did This

Lost My Car Key While Jogging On The Rail Trail, Went Back Looking For It And Stumbled Upon This. I Owe My Whole Soul To Whoever Did This

Eliza Calverley Report

#26

Me In First Grade Pre Surgery vs. Me In 2020 

Me In First Grade Pre Surgery vs. Me In 2020 

Had several surgeries due to birth defects. Just completed the dental treatment (which included having my jaw wired shut for several months). Very happy with the results

Ipsi Report

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Raine Soo
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow! I truly admire your strength, your grit, and your resolve. Best of luck to you for a bright future.

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#27

Don't Forget To Appreciate Your Grannies

Don't Forget To Appreciate Your Grannies

figgled Report

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Raine Soo
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aww, that's very sweet. My maternal grandma was a lovely lady too. However, the less said, the better about my paternal one...

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#29

My Son And His Best Friend, Both Told Their Survival Rate Would Be Around 2%, Walked The Stage And Graduated Tonight

My Son And His Best Friend, Both Told Their Survival Rate Would Be Around 2%, Walked The Stage And Graduated Tonight

Timfrostyo Report

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varwenea
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These two gentlemen, as well as their dedicated family, caregivers, teachers are all to be commended.

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#30

Well Done IKEA

Well Done IKEA

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#31

Role Model Mom

Role Model Mom

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#32

My Little Brother Has Autism. He Turned 17 Today. I Came Home From Work To This Note

My Little Brother Has Autism. He Turned 17 Today. I Came Home From Work To This Note

-TheOnlyOutlier- Report

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Lauren Caswell
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's so touching, and I love the ps ^-^ another great family relationship! BP was right this whole post is making me smile

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#33

My Brother Was The First To Graduate With A Master's In My Family. My Dad Couldn't Stop Crying

My Brother Was The First To Graduate With A Master's In My Family. My Dad Couldn't Stop Crying

Jay_no_pho Report

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#36

My 101-Year-Old Grandfather Threw A 100th Birthday Party For His Best Friend, Bob

My 101-Year-Old Grandfather Threw A 100th Birthday Party For His Best Friend, Bob

Lourdez01 Report

#37

I Asked My Mum To Make Me A Face Mask. I Guess Even After 40 Years I’m Still Her Little Boy

I Asked My Mum To Make Me A Face Mask. I Guess Even After 40 Years I’m Still Her Little Boy

Andy_Cohen_1979 Report

#38

Same Bike, Same Place, Same Girl. 71 Years Difference

Same Bike, Same Place, Same Girl. 71 Years Difference

RoloTonyBrownTown- Report

#39

The Docs Gave My Son A 10% Chance To Survive His CHD. He Is 6 Months Old Today And Thriving

The Docs Gave My Son A 10% Chance To Survive His CHD. He Is 6 Months Old Today And Thriving

spontaneousbootay Report

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Ms Forty Seven
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

CHD stands for Congenital Heart Defect. Such a beautiful child - way to go!

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#41

Love You Dad

Love You Dad

KLFC92 Report

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Francis
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i didn't speak until i was almost 5. my mum was worried that something might be wrong with me. i got tested... I WAS JUST TO LAZY TO SPEAK. there was no need for me to talk at home but at the dotors appointment i talked in quite complex sentences for my age :D my mum now loves this story

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#43

Was Born Without An Arm So I Built Myself My Own Eletronic 3D Printed Arm. This Is Me Holding An Egg

Was Born Without An Arm So I Built Myself My Own Eletronic 3D Printed Arm. This Is Me Holding An Egg

aqualocko Report

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#44

In Memory Of My Father

In Memory Of My Father

PupsikCat Report

#45

My Cat Ripped Open His Favorite Toy. This Is My Grandma Sewing It Back Together

My Cat Ripped Open His Favorite Toy. This Is My Grandma Sewing It Back Together

andthenhestabbedme Report

#46

During Her Battle With Cancer And After She Beat It

During Her Battle With Cancer And After She Beat It

flexing_after_cancer Report

#47

As A Teenager She Had A Domestic Accident Which Left Her Chest, Neck And Arms Severely Burned. Today, 10 Years Later, She Managed To Heal In A Way She Never Imagined

As A Teenager She Had A Domestic Accident Which Left Her Chest, Neck And Arms Severely Burned. Today, 10 Years Later, She Managed To Heal In A Way She Never Imagined

juarezlali Report

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Anne
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The amount of skill this tattoo artist has is immense. It is really hard to work on scars that severe. I LOVE the end result. And her smile is just as bright as the sun <3

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#48

Passengers Stay Seated So Dad Can Get To Daughters' Dance

Passengers Stay Seated So Dad Can Get To Daughters' Dance

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#50

I Work With The Same Doctor That Delivered Me 21 Years Ago

I Work With The Same Doctor That Delivered Me 21 Years Ago

green_teabag_ Report

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varwenea
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That's so cool. I'm sure he is very pleased to be working with you too.

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Note: this post originally had 120 images. It’s been shortened to the top 50 images based on user votes.