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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

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

In Egypt we have this tv show where they capture the reactions of poor people when they are given a ton of money. In one episode they tried to give the money to Doctor of the Poor, but he refused...

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

I cannot imagine this humble and selfless man taking anything for himself... the people he helped were truly blessed. May you rest in peace, Dr Mashali.

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

Another human specimen with a real heart. Well niceness resides in the brain to be anatomically correct but you will get my analogy

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

This picture is heart breaking...why hasn't anyone given this selfless doctor permission to care for his health and take care of himself too...he looks malnourished and poorer than the poor people he has treated...this is reflected in his outward health, clothing and attire...sad that he couldn't retire even days before his own death and felt obligated to care for others and neglect himself... :( And being surrounded by poor people all the time must have taken a toll on him because all that empathy probably made him feel guilty about self indulgence...how can people like this picture and not feel sorry for the selfless doctor who probably lived as miserable of a life as the patients he treated..

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Red Hair Blue Soul
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

we need more doctors like this and a better American healthcare system to allow them to do this!

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

We need more people like Dr. Mashali. Good, amazing people are everywhere if you look for them.

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

I knew a guy whose cousin tried to do this in America and he got a cease and desist order because he was circumventing insurance and just buying the medicine to give the people. I understand that they want to protect the people. But when a man who needs heart medication cannot get it, what is the point of this so called protection?

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

He will be added to the list of people I love and admire and wish I had met. He will be up there with Mr. Rogers and Bob Ross

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

As a Type One Diabetic, you have no idea how sad this makes me. Rest In Peace.

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

He was 76ish when he died~ that's not all that old... He looked older than he was. I wonder if in spite of his Goodness, it was a difficult life for him.

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

i hope someone was there to take his place. why we Don't hear about this more!!!!???

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

July 28th is my birthday... I'm sad he passed but honored he chose that date. Now I'll always remember and honor him.

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

Than you for your service- may your name be a blessing always!

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

I can guarantee that there is ZERO debate on where this angel has landed in eternity.

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