In the wake of one of the most historic elections to date, we are a country divided. It seems as if we can’t get on social media with witnessing or taking part in political discussions that, more often than not, lead to arguments. Many people have decided to remove themselves from social media for the time being, because they cannot stand to witness the negativity taking place. I, for one, have a hard time stomaching political arguments on social media. I would much rather see my newsfeeds filled with positivity and uplifting stories! So, in the midst of all of the negative media coverage, here are a few stories that happened in the last few weeks that will bring a smile to your face.

1. Navy Dad Surprises Son on Veteran’s Day

Navy reservist Leonard Viggiani hadn’t seen his children in almost eight months. His children were expecting a skype call from their father after school on Veteran’s Day. However, he had a much better surprise planned. Every year, Viggiani had attended a Veterans’ Day ceremony at his youngest son’s school as a guest speaker. This year, his son expected his father to miss it. But, when he got there, he and his older brother (who had been sent on a pretend “errand” at the elementary school) were shocked to find their father there! They were reunited and got to participate in the ceremony together.

2. Pilot of Flight QF93 Proposes to Girlfriend Aboard Flight

Captain Dooley Ellis was piloting a flight from Sydney, Australia to Santiago, Chile with his girlfriend aboard. Ellis announced over the loudspeaker from the cockpit, “We also have a very special passenger on board today. Her name is Anna.” He explained that she was traveling to South America to visit family members, but that he wanted to be sure that she was going to come back to him after the visit. He went on to say “So now that I have your complete attention- Anna: ¿Quieres casarte conmigo? Will you marry me?" Then, he came out into the aisle with flowers and an engagement ring and got down on one knee. Of course, Anna said “yes!”

3. Freshman Cheerleader Creates “The Sparkle Effect”

A high school cheerleader who grew up watching her brother, Charlie, struggle socially with Autism, especially throughout high school, decided to make a difference. She created an inclusive cheerleading squad called “The Sparkles,” which includes students with disabilities of all kinds. After seeing how great this squad was for her school, she also began fundraising to create more programs like this to other schools. Today, there are more than 150 of these programs in 30 different states. The Sparkle Effect sends trainers to work with schools that are interested, and they choose two captains to be the leaders of the squad. They also get free uniforms donated by Varsity Spirit!

4. Terminally ill Grandmother in North Carolina Gets Early Christmas

When Michelle Fadel found out that her cancer had spread throughout her body, and the treatments could not help, all she wanted to do was celebrate Christmas with her family. “I have six grandkids, and I didn’t want to be cheated out of celebrating with them because of my limited time.” Michelle’s husband, Dan decorated their home with lights and decorations in October, when neighbors began asking questions. Dan proceeded to tell neighbors about Michelle’s last wish, and this led to 12 different houses on their street being decorated early. This community came together to spread Christmas cheer with someone who needed it the most!

I hope that some of these stories brought you the joy that we all deserve! Instead of focusing on the negativity in the media today, choose joy!