My New Life as a Happy Person

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May 29, 2014

I have joined GNN as a member and thought I would share a small story with you all.

For years I was a moody, jealous and suspicious person. I felt that nobody wanted to be around me and I was ok with that. I enjoyed being a loner. I suspected everyone of talking behind my back and plotting things against me. I suspected my wife of cheating on me, which was never true. I went into depression, and tried self harm. I had a mental breakdown and needed counseling.

That was until I went through a spiritual process conducted by a friend of mine. It opened my eyes, and my life has never been better.

I have discovered angels, and frequently talk to them and the archangels. I have taken up meditation, I don’t watch the news channels, and I now feel like everyone likes me for who i am. I am more at peace with myself now, and have never been happier.

I so much want to continue my spiritual path. I have been in my new life now for less than a year, and my only regret is I wish I had discovered the angels and the alternative life years ago!

Thank you for reading my story.

John

Shave Company Grooms Skid Row Homeless For Success (Video)

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May 29, 2014

For the first time in decades, Tom Delaney saw his face. And it was handsome.

Delaney is one of the faceless people living on the streets of Los Angeles. But recently a luxury shave products company cleaned the cheekbones of those less fortunate faces to give the men a fresh start.

Van der Hagen Enterprises, partnered with the homeless organization Midnight Mission to hold Skid Row’s first “Grooming for Success” event.

Participants at the event each received haircuts and shaves, learned proper grooming techniques, and were trained in job interviews with a real world business executive.

Attendees also received a van der Hagen Luxury Shave Set and safety razor to help ensure they maintain a well-groomed appearance and make a strong first impression at that next job interview.

“I hadn’t seen my face since high school,” said Tom Delaney, a participant. “Getting a haircut and a shave gave me a renewed sense of self.”

To further support their inspiring work, van der Hagen Enterprises later pledged to donate a portion of all Luxury Shave Sets sold in 2014 to the Midnight Mission. (Be sure to watch the video above.)

Honoring the Legendary Author Maya Angelou (1928-2014)

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May 29, 2014

Maya Angelou’s literary voice, “revered for its poetic command,” is being honored around the world today after she died peacefully in her North Carolina home at the age of 86.

Angelou was an American author and poet. She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, and several books of poetry, and is credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning more than 50 years. Her first memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969), tells of her traumatic childhood, when she chose not to speak for almost six years. The book brought her international recognition and acclaim.

In a statement, her family expressed gratitude that in old age her mind never lost clarity. “She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. She was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace.”

“Never whine. Whining lets a brute know
that a victim is in the neighborhood.” -More at MayaAngelou.com

(WATCH a short memorial below, or READ the Obituary at CNN)

Peacekeepers Open New Soccer School

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May 29, 2014

soccer-program-DRC-UN-peacekeepers-2014-UNPhoto — A new soccer school for kids launches in Democratic Republic of Congo, created by UN Peacekeepers from Uruguay and Spain

A new soccer school for kids launches in Democratic Republic of Congo, created by UN Peacekeepers from Uruguay and Spain

Uruguayan peacekeepers with the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and local youth watch a soccer game at the launching of a new soccer school at the Don Bosco centre in Goma. The soccer school project was initiated by the peacekeepers with support from Spain and the Uruguayan foundation Celeste.

– UN Photo, April, 24 2014

She’s Given My Manhood Back: Dog Changes Wounded Vet’s Life

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May 29, 2014

(NBC) When U.S. Army Capt. James Van Thach returned home from Iraq in late 2008, he began to worry that the darkness might not ever lift.

The pain from his war injuries was constant, but his thoughts hurt him even more. He felt embarrassed about so many things: his marriage unraveling and ending; his inability to use his law degree after sustaining a traumatic brain injury; his need, at age 33, to move in with his parents so they could care for him and help him take 21 pills a day.

It wasn’t until a calm, loyal friend named Liz entered his life in 2012 that Thach could step back into the light again. Liz is a highly trained service dog, and she only has eyes for Thach.

(READ the full story, with photos, from TODAY)

Photo from Canine Companions for Independence – Story tip from katherine

Imagine a Day of Surprises That Make You Feel Great About a City

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May 28, 2014

signs of encouragement-Riverside-Schools-photo

In the best cities, serendipity happens. Turn a corner and there’s a juggler, a piece of art, a perfect garden, a violinist, or even just a stranger who says hello.

On June 7, Vancouver, B.C. will raise its awesome level, if that’s possible, with smile-invoking surprises planned in advance.

Its first 100-in-1 Day is being planned — a day when a bunch of design nerds, hipsters, parents and other folks will use their own time, money and creativity to do an “intervention.”

(READ the story in the Vancouver Sun) – Story tip from Craig Withers

Photo: Canada Kindness Challenge – LUSO

Rekindled Friendship With Donkey Saves Goat from Depression

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May 28, 2014

Friendship is not just a human emotion. Animal BFFs separated during a rescue from a farm this month were reunited in Northern California.

Taken to different animal care facilities, after spending ten years together, Mr. G, the goat was not happy. He hadn’t eaten anything for four days — even when offered sweet treats. He missed his friend, Jellybean the burro.

Then someone had the bright idea that he might be grieving and the caretakers arranged for a shuttle to deliver his friend.

“We had never taken in a donkey before,” said The Animal Place rescue center. “But we knew these friends needed to be together.”

The minute Mr. G. heard him being unloaded, he leapt up from the stall in the corner and ran to the door. He hasn’t left the burro’s side since.

(WATCH the video below or READ the story from Animal Place)

Photo and video from The Animal Place – Story tip from Lisa Bauman

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Firefighters at Costco Dash Away But Someone Pays for Their Food

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May 28, 2014

Some Northern California firefighters were surprised by a $123 anonymous gift after they dashed out of a Costco store, called to respond to an emergency.

They abandoned a cart filled with potato salad, steak, corn and watermelon — all the ingredients for a Memorial Day cookout.

When they returned, they found the bill for the groceries had been paid, and a note left on the receipt. “Thanks for being there for us.” It was signed, Air Force Wife.

The Vacaville Firefighters Association Local 3501 posted a photo of the receipt on their Facebook page.

Cervical Cancer Once Undetectable in Haiti Now Treatable With Cheap Device

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May 28, 2014

A disease long since tamed by modern medicine in the United States, cervical cancer still kills a quarter million women each year in developing nations like Haiti. They just don’t have the machines for detection and treatment, like the colposcope which magnifies the area to locate abnormal cells.

Duke medical doctor David Walmer, visiting Haiti to help renovate a church, was inspired to do something to address the cervical cancer problem.

He came up with an invention now known as the CerviScope. The cheap, portable version of a colposcope is made with items he bought at a camera shop and a local Walmart . The device uses a halogen bike headlamp, a green filter, battery run LEDs, and lenses from a $10 pair of binoculars.

(READ the story in the New York Times)

Story tip from Shannan Heinitz

Photo of the Day – Solar Powered Ferris Wheel

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May 28, 2014

Santa-Monica-pier-Flickr-CC-szeke — Santa Monica pier by Pedro Szekely, 2009 (via Flickr – CC license)

In 2008, a solar powered Ferris wheel premiered at the amusement park on the Santa Monica Pier. The ride, arrayed with bright lights, is 75% more energy efficient than the old wheel, which was auctioned on eBay for $132,400.

99-year-old Woman Receives College Diploma 75 Years Later

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May 27, 2014

A 99-year-old woman was finally awarded her college diploma at a special graduation ceremony after a $5 diploma fee prevented her from receiving it 75 years ago.

Jessie Rose White of Belfast, Maine, received a degree in stenography and bookkeeping after completing courses at Beal College in Bangor in 1939.

A friend heard the story and contacted the college, which responded in a most ceremonial way, even hosting a mini graduation party with President Allen Stehle presented White with her diploma.

(WATCH the video below, or READ the story from CNN) – Story tip from katherine

Viewer’s Generosity Changes Afghan Boy’s Life

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May 27, 2014

Caught in an Afghanistan firefight, 12 year-old Obaid lost both his legs last year, but refused to give up hope for a wonderful life.

He was being measured for prosthetics by the Red Cross when NBC News first featured his story in a televised report. A Boston-area grandmother was touched by what she saw and decided to help from 7000 miles away.

Cindy Barrett isn’t rich, but she decided to donate a few thousand dollars and it changed Obaid’s life. She purchased books, a school uniform and tuition for one of the best schools in Kabul.

An NBC news crew revisited the boy in March to find him strong and optimistic. When asked what he wanted to do as an adult, his answer was proof that he believes anything is possible.

He has learned English, and reporter Richard Engel traveled back to Boston to surprise Cindy with a handwritten thank-you letter.

She said she may not be able to help everyone but she realized she could help one person.

(WATCH the video below from NBC)

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Beauty Brands Pledge to End Use of Microbeads in Their Products

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May 27, 2014

frog peeks out of water - Ucumari-Foter-CC

Cosmetics companies have promised to remove plastic “microbeads” from their products, following an investigation by The Independent on Sunday which revealed these tiny particles are ending up in fish and other marine creatures after being washed down bathroom sinks.

Thirteen companies, including international cosmetic firms that sell the exfoliating washes and creams with microbeads made from polyethylene and other plastics, say they are planning to stop using them.

(READ the story from The Independent)

Quadruple Amputee Stuns TV’s Mike Rowe: ‘I’m not a victim’

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May 27, 2014

American soldier Travis Mills served three tours in Afghanistan until he lost his arms and legs in a bomb explosion.

The retired United States Army staff sergeant spent months recuperating at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, but don’t dare call him a wounded warrior.

“I’m not wounded any more,” he said. “I’m just a guy living life.”

Recalling comrades killed in combat, he asks: “How selfish would it be if I gave up?”

Using “neat” prosthetics, he runs, snowboards, and bikes.

This guy’s attitude is so inspiring, no matter what your own misfortune may be.

(WATCH the video below or READ the story from CNN) – Story tip from katherine

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Iranian Mother Spares Life of Son’s Murderer Just Before Execution

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Anup Dhirwan

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May 26, 2014

From a handwritten letter by victim's mom - CBS snapshot

This is a month-old news story, but I am not sure if any of your readers have heard about it. Its been on every website but largely overshadowed.

A young Iranian man escaped a hangman’s noose with just seconds to spare when his victim’s mother chose forgiveness, and the high-profile campaign to save his life ended.

The mother of the man he murdered seven years ago in a street fight refused to accept an offer of money, which is her right under Iranian law, until the very last moment at the gallows.

As the blindfolded convict awaited his fate, a grieving Samereh Alinejad pardoned the killer, imparting only a slap on his face as punishment.

“I am a believer. I had a dream in which my son told me that he was at peace and in a good place,” Alinejad was quoted as saying. “After that, all my relatives, even my mother, put pressure on me to pardon the killer.”

“Now that I’ve forgiven him, I feel relieved”, she added.

(READ the full story, with photo, at DNA India)

Edited by Good News Network

US Airmen Adopt Little Girl with Special Needs From Ukraine

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May 26, 2014

airport-adoption-homecoming-DOD-Sgt-Samuel_Morse — Photos and story by Tech. Sgt. Samuel Morse, Air Force Public Affairs

Tech. Sgt. Jamie Meadows-Valley traveled to a Ukrainian orphanage, even dodging street protests, to adopt a 2-year-old girl. Since then, the tiny girl named Oleksandra has made remarkable strides.

Jamie’s husband, Master Sgt. Ernie Valley, and the couple’s children have embraced her as part of their family.

The Air Force couple expressed strong feelings about the need for good homes for orphans, especially in Eastern Europe. But, they wanted to give a better life to a child with special needs, who wouldn’t get the help he or she needed in their home country, whether or not he or she was adopted.

“You see these kids on photo listings, and, for me, they spoke to my heart,” said Jamie. “They don’t have the Americans With Disabilities Act (protecting them), so they don’t have ways to get on trains, to get into apartments; they don’t have elevators that are big enough for wheelchairs. There are no ramps into restaurants.”

They said they hoped their story will inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

“That little girl just won the parent lottery,” said Mark Tschampl, a long-time friend of the family. “She may not know it for a while, but (she) is going to have a fantastic life.”

Life in Ukraine wasn’t easy for Sandie. With a cleft palate and limited access to medical care, she was hand-fed the entire time she lived at the orphanage. Staff members would hold her steady and only feed her bread soaked in milk to avoid the risk choking on unthawed food. She wasn’t allowed to make choices for herself and despite being 2 years old, she wore clothing made for children less than half her age.

Despite that, it was love at first sight for Jamie. “I knew she was meant for us.”

In her first week in her new home, Sandie learned to chew, try new foods and even use sign language to ask for more food. While she used to eat in total silence, she came out of her shell and was very vocal about her desire for more food, causing her to gain a full pound in seven days.

Ultimately though, it’s all about giving Sandie a home.

“When she’s sad, she has someone to hug her.”

(WATCH the video below, or READ more, w/ photos, from Airman.com)

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Obese Boy Accepts Responsibility, Loses 200 Pounds

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Harley H

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May 26, 2014

Edgar Hernandez didn’t expect to learn that he was pre-diabetic at age 16.

When his mother burst into tears at the doctor’s office, it hit him hard. He was 370 pounds and couldn’t stand to look at himself.

After things became unbearable in high school and Edgar was being treated for depression, he realized, “It was time to stop blaming others for my choices… and take responsibility.”

He dried his tears, threw on his jacket and began jogging.

He lost almost 200 pounds by using determination, eating sensibly, and controlling his portion sizes.

(READ the story at CNN)

Solar-Powered Pump Makers Want to Bring Clean Water to Millions Who Need It

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May 26, 2014

An Austrian company, Pumpmakers, created a do-it-yourself solar water pump system with hopes of bringing clean and safe drinking water to the millions of people around the world who suffer from the lack of it.

In 2012 they unveiled their NSP Solar Pump as the first maintenance-free and corrosion-resistant water pump system that can be manufactured locally, and that runs entirely on solar power, needing no back-up electricity and incurring no additional costs.

Their first installation, in a Mozambique village provides water to about 800 people with a capacity of up to 5,000 liters that are pumped from a depth of 262 feet each day, even when it is cloudy. A hand pump fixture can extract water at night.

What’s more, the NSP Solar Pump system is inexpensive and can easily be set up to replace pre-installed water pumps, such as hand water pumps, generator-powered pumps or windmill water pumps that are typically found in rural and remote areas.

A new crowdfunding campaign seeks funds to provide some of the harder to find parts cheaply through an online website so that villages everywhere can benefit. The DIY instructions are already online.

(READ more about the lifesaving technology here)

Photo: Pumpmakers photo of founder Dietmar Stuck

Hero Provides Shoes for Those Trying to Get Back on Their Feet

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May 25, 2014

A young woman from Orlando, Florida, Jules Colombino, had worked for aid groups before, but she never saw anything like the aftermath of the Haitian earthquake in 2010.

“People were barefoot because they had lost everything, and the women needed jobs.”

It was just a concept, but she decided she could help Haitian women by creating shoes out of old tires.

Now, four year later, Haitian employees of Rebuild Globally produce a high quality product sold in big name stores.

(READ the story, w/ photo, from Orlando News 13)

“I’m Right Here Behind You”

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Jon Harper

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May 25, 2014

There is no way! It is too high and too dangerous!

Those were my thoughts as my son climbed the inflatable slide above. When I first saw this contraption I thought to myself, “This looks fun, but it is not meant for three-year olds.

Well, my son proved me wrong!

The fuzzy picture above is of my three old son, climbing up the stairs of this slide. Trust me, it was steeper and taller than it looks in the photo.

What may not be readily evident is that in the photo my son is turning around to see if we were watching him. Of course we were! Not only was I watching him, but my daughter (Heroes Don’t Always Wear Capes)was right there behind him, every step of the way. And he knows that! And that’s why he is willing to take chances in life. And that’s why he had the courage to take this chance.

The two of them climbed the ladder and slid down numerous times. Several times he flipped over and would look at me to see my reaction. Of course I cheered him on! And that was all he needed. That and his sister with him. She is his number one fan and he is hers. Towards the end, when he was tired of flipping over and tumbling into a pile, his sister would would slide down with him.

This is a quick piece that I just wanted to share. I didn’t want to spend too much time crafting it because it is not about the writing. It is about the message.

We need to let our children, our students and our staff know that we are right there with them. They will fall. They will be scared and they will make mistakes. But they need to know that when they are taking that chance,

when they are taking that risk,

when they are little scared,

that they can turn around and know that we are right there!

Have a great day and remember that you don’t need to solve every problem you are faced with today, but you do need to be there when someone turns around to look for you.