There is no debating the fact that 2016 has been an absolutely insane year. This year has seen many deaths, natural disasters, and that crazy election. It's hard to see good when there is so much bad going on in the world, but there have definitely been some really cool things that have happened this year, and here are a few.
1. The Tiger Population Is Growing
For the past 100 years, the number of tigers in the world has been decreasing rapidly. 2016 is the first year that the numbers of tigers have risen, not declined, in many decades. The fight to save tigers is no where near over, but it definitely feels good to see these numbers rising.
2. India Planted 50 Million Trees In One Day
On July 11, 800,000 volunteers in Uttar Pradesh, India worked to plant 50 MILLION trees. India has one of the worst air qualities in the world, so these trees will hopefully give them some fresh air and undo some of the effects deforestation has had on their state.
3. There Has Been Promising New Research For Alzheimer's Patients
New research conducted this year showed that when rats with Alzheimer's were showed a certain flickering light, the brain sent immune cells to fight the plaque in the brain that the disease caused. This is still far from being tested on actual patients, but this research, if nothing else, revealed the role the immune system has in the disease, which could definitely help future research.
4. This Grandpa Learned How To Knit So He Could Make Caps For Premature Babies
Ed Moseley, 86, ended up knitting 55 caps for preemies. Mr. Moseley inspired some people around him to do the same, and he ended up donating 300 caps to Northside Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Heart swell.
5. The Cubs Won The World Series
Whether you're a fan or not, this was a super cool moment to watch. After a 108 year streak, the Cubs won the World Series with an 8-7 victory over the Cleveland Indians.
6. Leonardo Dicaprio Won An Oscar
I mean...finally!
There is so much more I could add to this list. 2016 has been a pretty rough year, but it has also been a really good one.
