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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

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

Bless HER HEART 💜 TOO~ It's very special for someone to take time out of their day to help someone else... Especially A Family Member.😁

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

How sweet, and to help share your education with your uncle is so lovely, sounds like a lovely family!

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

It shows great character to not only accept help but also being so open about it in his age. And to take the time to teach him of course.

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

The human instinct to learn, has propelled this uncle's knowledge of the language English

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glowworm2
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

How wonderful that he can finally write his grandchildren’s names.

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

Wonderful penmanship! What a wonderful gift you are giving him. His life will be so much richer with his new literacy. I love his smile! He looks like a very sweet man.

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

I'm not crying!!! There's just something in my eye, like a branch.

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

Both of you are to be commended. I hope he has never felt less than because he didn't have the opportunity to learn these things.

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

Proof that you are never too old to learn something new -- good for you!

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

god bless, both of you. He deserves credit for never thinking it's too late to learn: you for helping him open up a new world by teaching him to write.

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

Bless you! I hope you will also teach him how to read. Reading could open up the world to him!

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

I have written to so many people whose first language is not English, where many people would have made fun of them, I have explained words and their sentences to them so they will have a better understanding. there is no need to make fun of someone who can't do something correctly, at least they are trying, unlike those who are laughing.

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

I have a distant cousin who was mentally disabled in the days when kids like her didn't get to go to school. She did absolutely nothing but stay with her mom until she was in her 60s and her mom passed away. My cousin then worked up the courage to insist on her independence and got her own apartment, made tons of friends through her church who took her traveling all over the world, and learned to read and write and manage her own money -- all when she was this grandpa's age! She was so incredibly proud of learning to read and write, and we're all very proud of her, too. It's wonderful to see people becoming literate when they hadn't had a chance earlier in their lives!

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

Bless your heart. You are doing an amazing thing. Changing lives is awesome!

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

So exciting! The future has love notes & books awaiting him, because of you!

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

What a strong, resilient and amazing man. That is wonderful.

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

So cool. Glad that you can do this, and even more impressed with his ability to throw off any potential pride for self betterment.

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#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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#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

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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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