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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

FaisalTreShah Report

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

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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#28

Autism Be Damned My Boy Can Work A Grill

Autism Be Damned My Boy Can Work A Grill

Eddie Gomez Report

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

I hope one day I can feel that happy. Life is all about happy moments. Sometimes you have a run of bad times, but if you smile through them....it makes the happy ones all the more sweeter. Never give up.

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

My son has Autism. He is actually the cook in the family.

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

You've shown you know your son is not his diagnosis. He can do something my Ph.d husband can't do.

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

Good parent for teaching him to work that grill too. You can see the pride in his face.

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

Thank you for posting this. As a fellow autistic, I get so tired of reading all of the negatives. Good for your son!

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

I'm on this BBQ group on Facebook. One of my favorite posts ever on it.

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

My sister has autism along with an array of other disorders and made my heart smile

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

Your boy can indeed do anything! Tell him that every day!

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

Thanks a lot sir, now I have to go and make some myself. (BTW, if anybody sees a large mushroom cloud, it’s me)

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

Like my dear, dear father always says "it's about the little joys in life"

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Family Osborne
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

with a sibling on the autism spectrum, my heart is so happy seeing this.

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

My little cousin has autism and just barely started talking at age 12.

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

AWWWWWWW~ Such a Proud Father! I always hung out with my dad while he was grilling... I bet he'd be thrilled with what I learned from him. It's wonderful to see the Son look so happy because he did good.

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

Autism is like leaves on a tree. Each is different and has a different gift.

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

Check cci.org for information about their Service Dog program for your son. Their fully trained dogs are FREE OF CHARGE to people who qualify for them.

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

He should be awfully proud of himself -- "Chef" -- your food looks delicious!

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

Good grilling takes talent and that's some good grillin!! He looks very happy doing his thing, I wonder if he'd enjoy cooking for people with his own Grill truck or something, most good cooks really love to watch people enjoy their food!

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

Looks beautifully cooked. I have mild Asperger's and I can't even use an oven properly. I fry everything.

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

He ALSO, looks like a very good cook and happy with the world.

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

He looks so very happy. He certainly can cook up a very yummy looking dinner. I hope you enjoyed it sweetheart.

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

Yay! One of the guys that lives in the community home where I work is learning to cook! I’m so glad you are able to show just one of the amazing things people with autism can do!

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

😋🤗 Yummy! I’m so hungry now, looks so delicious. God bless you all. 🙏🏻🕊 xoxo

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

Ive read this post from his parents on facebook. I was so proud with them

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

Good for you for recognizing his abilities and giving him an important task which makes him feel useful. Love how happy it makes him!

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

Way to go 👏🏽 Who cares if your this or that. Anything is possible

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

This is such an accomplishment for one who has mental disorders

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

Aluminium foil over the grill will make all the food more toxic :(

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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

AnnaKhadejah Report

#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

jhaleauthor Report

#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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