Why You Shouldn’t Accept the First Job: 3 Tips on Spotting Toxic Workplaces for New Grads

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May 15, 2018

It took years of hard work, but you’ve finally earned the title that eludes so many: you’re officially a graduate.

Congratulations! Now that you’ve celebrated your success, it’s time to figure out how you can earn a new title that’ll put your new skills to work.

Do your homework

It’s easy to rush into the first job you’re offered when bills loom large, but you need to treat it as if it’s the most important paper you’re researching for school – because this time, it’s not a grade on the line; it’s your happiness.

Everyone wants to pay the bills, but is that worth dreading going into work each day? Are you willing to go the extra mile to find something you love to do that will also pay your bills? While researching a potential employer, take advantage of websites like Glassdoor and Indeed to look up the anonymous reviews from people already working there.

You’re looking for patterns across the reviews. Are there a lot of reviews from former employees or employees with less than a year of experience? That could be an indicator of high turnover. Do you see a lot of negative reviews followed by an influx of positive reviews? That might be someone from HR or Marketing trying to cover up the negative reviews by posting some of their own. That’s a red flag.

Ask the right questions during the interview

Everyone tries to make a good first impression on both sides of the interviewing table. That’s why there’s not a one-size-fits-all checklist of questions to ask in every interview. The right questions for your next interview are the ones that’ll help you identify how authentic the replies are.

Most authenticity won’t come from the words your interviewer says. Studies like those done by UCLA’s Professor Emeritus of Psychology Albert Mehrabian have shown that only about 7% of communication comes from the actual words spoken. The other 93% comes from body language (55%) and tone of voice (38%). Knowing this, try asking questions that’ll help you get a sense for the company culture without relying on the words themselves.

MORE: Meditation and Mindfulness Tips to Combat Everyday Worries and Life’s Big Questions

For example, when you ask your interviewer about their company’s core values, does their tone of voice suggest they don’t know (or don’t care) about the core values? That’s a red flag. When a company doesn’t take the time to identify acceptable behavior through their core values, anything is fair game. That’s a recipe for cultural disaster. If you ask the question like, “Do people in this company spend time together outside the office?” try to go beyond the words of their reply. Is their body language showing authentic excitement about their answer? Or is it obvious they’re answering with something they think is the right answer?

Check out the restroom

It sounds silly, I know, but bear with me.

During your interview, ask to use the restroom. Look in the stalls to see if you find any empty toilet paper rolls. If you do, that’s a red flag.

The basic principle is one I borrowed from rock ‘n’ rollers Van Halen. As the band grew in popularity, so did their stage show. They became massive productions that could be deadly if the crew it all together didn’t pay attention to the details. In their performance contracts was a small item that had major implications: No brown M&Ms.

CHECK OUT: How to Stop the Runaway Train of Anxiety in 4 Steps

It wasn’t about the chocolate. It was a safety issue. If the band discovered brown M&Ms, they’d know someone didn’t pay attention to the technical details in their performance contract, which usually meant that it wasn’t safe to step on stage.

So when I see an empty toilet paper holder, I see disrespect. No one using the last piece of toilet paper gets surprised by it. They know what they’re doing when they avoid replacing it for the next person. If someone isn’t willing to take the five seconds out of their day to replace the roll for the next person, are they likely to spend more significant time to make sure they hand-off projects without issues? When leadership has built a culture that matters to the people who work there, they’re willing to do the right thing when no one else is looking.

Every company gives their employees a basic paycheck. Few go further than the traditional benefits to build a culture that matters. As you’re looking for a new place to work, think beyond the size of the paycheck and the skills to do the job. Some people can survive working in negative conditions, but you shouldn’t have to. Life’s too short to not love the place you work.

Piyush Patel, author of “Lead Your Tribe, Love Your Work”, is an entrepreneur who grew his company, Digital-Tutors, into a leader in the world of online training, educating over 1.5 million students in digital animation, with clients including Pixar, Apple and NASA. A former Northern Oklahoma College professor, Patel grew frustrated with outdated training material, and launched the company from his living room with only $54 and built it without any debt or investors, eventually creating multi-million dollar revenue. In 2014, the company sold for $45 million.

Remember To Share These Handy Tips With Your Newly-Graduated Friends – Photo by isabisa, CC

‘It was an honor’: Pilots Go Out of Their Way to Stand Guard Over Grieving Woman’s Photo

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Good News Network

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May 15, 2018

This grieving granddaughter has been praising Alaska Airlines on social media for the “extraordinary kindness” that they showed her during her time of need.

A woman named Kathryn has been mourning the death of her grandmother, Concetta Immacolata Mongiardo, after she passed away at the age of 103 last week.

According to a Facebook post that was published by KTVU’s Frank Somerville, Kathryn had been especially close with her grandma – which made it all the more difficult to deal with her death.

“Concetta … was the light of my life,” writes Kathryn. “[So] for the wake and funeral mass, I made a poster of my favorite picture of her, which is when she turned 100.

LOOK: Woman Surprised to Find Her Dog Comforting a Grieving Stranger in the Airport

“To me, this picture shows the essence of my grandmother’s nature: gratitude,” she added.

In preparation for traveling with the picture, Kathryn wrapped it in cardboard, went to the airport, and got ready to board her flight.

When she reached Lourdes Pedemonte, who was the Alaska Airlines gate agent for the flight, Kathryn asked if there was a special place where she could keep the picture. At first, Pedemonte said that the picture would have to go in the cargo hold with the rest of the luggage.

Then with tears in her eyes, Kathryn explained why she was traveling with the photo and why it was important for her to protect it.

“Pedemonte started to cry with me, and then she assured me that Nan wouldn’t have to fly in the cargo hold. A few minutes later, she came up to me, put her hand on my shoulder and said, ‘you’re all set, the pilots are going to keep Nan in the cockpit,’” says Kathryn.

“I started to cry again because of the kindness Ms. Pedemonte showed me.

WATCH: Father Surprises Son With Birthday Gift From Beyond the Grave

“When I boarded the plane, I was greeted by flight attendant Pam Keck who said, ‘you must be the woman with some precious cargo.’ I smiled at her, with tears in my eyes, and handed Nan over to her.

“The cockpit door was open, and when Ms. Keck handed Nan over to the pilots, they both made eye contact with me and told me not to worry, that they would take good care of Nan as we travelled across the country.”

When they finally landed, Kathryn made her way to the front of the plane and found Keck and the pilots waiting with the cardboard-wrapped picture in hand. With her hand over her heart, the grateful passenger thanked the flight crew.

LOOK: Photo of “Pathway to Heaven” Offers Peace to Grieving Families

In addition to offering their condolences, the pilots also said that “it was an honor” to stand guard over the precious cargo.

“I really hope Ms. Pedemonte, Ms. Keck, and the pilots know the depths of my gratitude for the kindness and compassion they showed me that day,” says Kathryn.

Fly This Sweet Story Over To Your Friends And Share It On Social Media – Photos by Kathryn

Mom Gratefully Reunites With Cop Who Saved the Life of Her 3-Month-old

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McKinley Corbley

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May 15, 2018

An off-duty police deputy is being hailed for saving the life of a 3-month-old baby named Kingston who was in dire need of medical attention.

The boy’s frantic mother, Nechole Crowell, had been driving through Ocala, Florida last week when she noticed that her infant son had suddenly stopped breathing for unknown reasons.

At the same time, K9 Deputy Jeremie Nix was driving home from work when he heard car horns blaring from the opposite lane. He turned to see Crowell anxiously waving him over and flagging him down for help.

After he pulls over behind Crowell’s car, Nix’s dashcam footage shows him taking hold of Kingston so he could perform CPR. Though he was able to get small gasps of air out of the boy, Nix was unable to get Kingston breathing steadily.

With the chest compressions proving unsuccessful, Nix listened for the sound of ambulances, but heard nothing. He then made the life-saving decision to rush Kingston to the hospital himself.

It turned out to be the right decision, too – doctors say that if Kingston had not received medical attention when he did, he most likely would not have survived. But thanks to Nix’s quick thinking, they were able to resuscitate the boy and he has since made a full recovery.

Crowell was overwhelmed with gratitude towards Nix when she heard that her son would be okay.

LOOK: NASA Engineer Saves Passenger Jet From Disaster When He Spots Malfunction From Window Seat

“I had so many emotions — I actually broke down while we were in the ER — and he said, ‘I’m gonna make sure they save your baby,’” Crowell told Inside Edition. “A few minutes later he came back to tell me [Kingston] was breathing and [Deputy Nix] was crying.”

Nix told WCJB: “There’s no question in my mind that God put me right where he needed me to be at the right time to help Kingston and Nechole. And He deserves the honor and the glory for it. And this guy, he’s our testimony right here and he will be for a long time.”

Nix’s employers have expressed their joy over the situation as well; the Marion County Sheriff’s Department wrote on Facebook: “We are tremendously proud of Deputy Nix and we can already see that he and Baby Kingston will have a deep connection that will last a lifetime!”

(WATCH the harrowing rescue below)

Share The Sweet Story Of Fate With Your Friends – Photo by Marion County Police Department

California Becomes First State to Feed Chronically Ill With Specially Prescribed Meals

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McKinley Corbley

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May 15, 2018

California has become the first state to launch a pilot program that will treat low-income and at-risk Medicaid patients with specially tailored meals that are proven to offer relief from chronic illnesses and diseases.

The “Food is Medicine” 3-year program draws on how certain illnesses require special diets that can be hard to orchestrate, especially for poorer patients. Congestive heart failure, for instance, requires people to consume less than one teaspoon of salt per day. While this can already be hard to actually measure throughout your daily meals, it can also be hard for low-income patients to find cheap foods that are low in sodium.

Over the course of the next three years, the state will be giving funding to hunger relief charities in San Francisco, the North Bay Area, Santa Clara County, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The charities and pantries, all of which are a part of the Food is Medicine coalition, will be providing specially prepared meals to 1,000 state Medicaid patients who suffer from congestive heart failure, cancer, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and renal disease.

Gov. Jerry Brown (D) first approved the program back in June 2017, but legislators celebrated the actual launch of the program last Sunday.

“We couldn’t be more excited to turn this local success story into a statewide program that will improve the health of those who need it most while reducing costs for taxpayers over the long term,” Senator McGuire said. “The bottom line: We believe, over the next three years, we’ll demonstrate enhanced health outcomes for chronically ill Medi-Cal patients and save millions in health care costs.”

The initiative was first inspired by the work of the Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance (MANNA) in Philadelphia. The organization published a study on their work in 2013 that showed the impressive benefits of using food to treat the chronically ill.

The study showed that patients who were given three medically-tailored meals a day over the course of six months experienced a dramatic drop in monthly healthcare costs, from $38,937 per month to $28,183 per month, which was 55% lower than control groups in the study.

MORE: This Doctor Broke The Law To Engineer a Better Nursing Home, And the Death Rate Plummeted

Not only that, participants were half as likely to visit the emergency room – and when they did, they spent less time at the facilities. Additionally, patients were more likely to be discharged from hospitals and sent home, rather than being sent to special treatment facilities.

California now hopes to enjoy the same benefits and save taxpayers millions in healthcare costs.

Hilary Seligman of the UCSF Global Health Sciences, said: “I am so pleased to see progress toward ensuring that the most critically ill patients have access to the food they need to stay healthy in their homes. Not only do these meals nourish, but they also hold promise for keeping people out of the hospital, preventing health crises, and allowing people to maintain independence at home.”

Today I had the honor of joining @ProjAngelFood at the launch of their statewide pilot project which will provide nutritional meals to patients suffering from congestive heart failure. Thanks to @MamasKitchenSD for the great food. @LACareHealth @RichardAyoub pic.twitter.com/7rzKfPd95j
— Assemblywoman Rubio (@AsmBlancaRubio) May 5, 2018

Pass On The Positive Story To Your Friends And Remember To Share With Your Family

In the Midst of Volcanic Eruption, Rescuers Brave Lava to Save Trapped Dogs

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McKinley Corbley

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May 15, 2018

Two dogs are lucky to be alive, and it’s no small thanks to a heroic group of animal rescuers who pulled them out of their predicament.

As the Kilauea volcano erupts on the main island of Hawaii, over a dozen volcanic fissures have opened up around the Leilani Estates subdivision.

Carol Hosley, who lives in the danger area, had been packing up her possessions so she could evacuate two weeks ago when her dogs, who are named Little Dude and Brus, became frightened by the sudden appearance of male rescuers and they took off running into the wilderness.

Since Hosley had adopted the two dogs from the Aloha Ilio animal rescue, the organization joined in on the search for the missing dogs.

WATCH: Clever Man Rescues Endangered Puppy by Building a Drone in 6 Hours

“We’ve been looking for him for 10 days, and we’ve just kept going back, and going back,” Daylynn Kyles, president of Aloha Ilio Dog Rescue, told Hawaii News Now.

Finally after ten days of searching, the rescue team found the pups trapped between a fence line and a surge of cooled lava. Though they were unharmed by the lava, Brus and Little Dude had both been bitten by red ants and left severely shaken by their experience.

“They were stuck behind a fence, and they couldn’t get out because the lava had surrounded them,” Kyles said. “It was crazy.”

In order to rescue them, Kyles and two of the rescue crew had to army crawl through the grass and climb over the fence. Not only that, but as they were retrieving the dogs, they heard another volcanic fissure opening up nearby, which Kyles described as a “big boom” that sounded “like a freight train.”

Thankfully, no one was injured by the lava splatters and the animal shelter is currently taking care of the dogs while Hosley finds new housing.

“I’m just thrilled to death, I just couldn’t be happier,” Hosley said. “The other stuff is stuff, but I got the dogs.”

(WATCH the video below)

Pass On The Pawesome Rescue Story To Your Friends And Share To Social Media – Photo by Aloha Ilio Animal Rescue

“The important thing is this: To be able at any moment to sacrifice what we are for what we could become.” – Charles DuBois

Quote of the Day

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Good News Network

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May 15, 2018

Quote of the Day: “The important thing is this: To be able at any moment to sacrifice what we are for what we could become.” – Charles DuBois

With a new inspirational quote every day, atop the perfect photo—collected and archived on our Quotes page—why not bookmark GNN.org for a daily uplift?

Secretary Mimicked Her Boss for 67 Years, Now Everyone is Shocked by Her Secret Fortune and What She Did With it (Podcast)

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Good News Network

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May 15, 2018

Hear the remarkable story of Sylvia Bloom, a shrewd secretary who amassed a fortune after watching her bosses at work – and the beautiful thing she did with it. Hear The Good News Guru tell the inspiring story (from the May 11, 2018 Ellen K. Morning Show on KOST-103.5 radio).

READ the full story on Good News Network…

Hear 6 Minutes of Compelling Motivation on How Beauty Can Heal Us

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Good News Network

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May 14, 2018

The Lesson: Jason Silva has a knack for using his poetic enthusiasm to inspire an infectious kind of exuberance in his listeners – and this 6-minute clip is no exception. In the video below, Silva riffs on how encounters with beauty can heal us of our mental shortcomings and anxieties.

Notable Excerpt: “Beauty arrests because it points to something beyond the every day. Beauty arrests because it hits at a realm of the sacred. Beauty arrests because it awakens the religious impulse inside of us. Beauty can shake us out of our jadedness. There can be no cynicism in response to being overwhelmed by the beatific … and so, surround yourself with beauty … curate your environment.”

The Host: Jason Silva is an Emmy-award winning television host, motivational speaker, and filmmaker. In addition to hosting his YouTube series Shots of Awe, Silva has given hundreds of lectures on creativity, technology, innovation, mental health, and relationships. His National Geographic TV show Brain Games has been broadcasted in over 171 countries.

(LISTEN to the inspiring 6-minute talk below)

Good Advice? SHARE It – Or Check Out More On Our Good Talks Page…

Costa Rica Announces Ambitious Plan to Ban Fossil Fuels and Become World’s First Decarbonized Society

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Good News Network

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May 14, 2018

During his inauguration speech last week, the new president of Costa Rica announced an ambitious plan to make the country a leader in the fight against climate change.

As thousands of constituents were gathered in San Jose for 38-year-old Carlos Alvarado’s presidential induction ceremony, he announced his intentions to fully ban the use of fossil fuels and make Costa Rica the first country in the world to achieve decarbonization.

“Decarbonization is the great task of our generation and Costa Rica must be one of the first countries in the world to accomplish it, if not the first,” says the president.

He added: “We have the titanic and beautiful task of abolishing the use of fossil fuels in our economy to make way for the use of clean and renewable energies.”

Alvarado, who formerly worked as a journalist, seemed to emphasize his intentions by traveling to the inauguration aboard a hydrogen-fueled bus, according to The Independent.

The president plans on implementing the country’s fossil fuel ban in 2021, which marks Costa Rica’s 200th year of independence.

“When we reach 200 years of independent life we will take Costa Rica forward and celebrate … that we’ve removed gasoline and diesel from our transportation,” Alvarado promised.

MORE: California Set to Become First US State Requiring Solar Panels on New Homes

While the ban may seem unrealistic, Costa Rica has already been hailed for generating 99% of their energy needs through renewable energy sources, such as hydroelectricity, wind, solar, and geothermal energy.

Experts say that one of the last major steps for the country’s decarbonization is eliminating fossil fuels from public transportation, which make up a large portion of Costa Rica’s CO2 emissions.

Power Up With Positivity And Share The Good News With Your Friends – Photo by Dennis Tang, CC

When Dog’s Pointy Ears Betray Her Hiding Spot Behind a Flowerpot, Owners Are Left Laughing

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Good News Network

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May 14, 2018

Judging by her impressive sneaking skills, Tasha the dog could give the Pink Panther a run for his money.

Unfortunately, her pointy ears foiled her attempt to hide from her owners.

In a cute video that was uploaded by Kelly Davenport Jackson from Rossford, Ohio, the humans can be seen opening their sliding door so they can call Tasha inside from her outdoor romp.

At first glance, it seems that Tasha is nowhere to be found. The second that they close the door, however, the wary canine immediately pokes her head out from her hiding spot behind a flowerpot in the driveway.

WATCH: Butcher Politely Shows Meat Samples to Feline Customer Before Giving it a Free Sample

The Davenports open the door to call her again and she immediately recedes back into hiding.

As Tasha’s owners repeat this process several times, they can hardly contain their laughter.

The pup’s attempt at secrecy is eventually foiled when her pointy ears betray her position to the camera – and the Davenports still couldn’t stop laughing.

Since the video was uploaded last year, it has been viewed over 40 million times.

(WATCH the amusing video below)

Be Sure And Share The Pawesomely Hilarious Clip With Your Friends – Photo by Kelly Davenport Jackson

Tesla’s Giant Record-Breaking Battery Shows Stunning Success By Saving Consumers Millions

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McKinley Corbley

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May 14, 2018

With homes in South Australia suffering from frequent and expensive power outages, that state’s government began searching for a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly backup system for their electrical grid.

Then, last July, Elon Musk, the chief executive of alternative energy company Tesla, offered to build the world’s biggest lithium ion battery as the ultimate backup solution for the territory.

Not only but, but Musk wagered that if the battery wasn’t ready to be switched on within 100 days of signing the contract, he would gift it to the state free of charge.

According to new data that was presented this month at the Australian Energy Week conference in Melbourne, as reported by Renew Economy, the 129 megawatt battery has already resulted in stunning success.

For starters, the battery has resulted in a 90% drop in maintenance costs. In addition to being a cheaper replacement to the fossil-fuel dependent system that was previously used by the energy market operator, the battery creates zero carbon emissions. It is also capable of responding to outages in a matter of seconds, which could not be achieved by previous backups.

MORE: LEGO Reaches 100% Renewable Energy Goal 3 Years Early

Within the first four months of operation, the battery has already saved consumers an estimated $26 million (AU$35 million) in maintenance costs to the grid, making South Australia the only region that has enjoyed a decline in the cost of frequency controlled ancillary services (FCAS) in recent months.

“In the first four months of operations of the Hornsdale Power Reserve (the official name of the Tesla big battery, owned and operated by Neoen), the frequency ancillary services prices went down by 90 percent,” said Mckinsey and Co. partner Godart van Gendt.

CHECK OUT: Saudi Arabia to Curb Oil Use With $50B Renewable Energy Plan

“And the 100MW battery has achieved over 55 percent of the FCAS revenues in South Australia. So it’s 2 percent of the capacity in South Australia achieving 55 percent of the revenues.”

“While others are just talking, we are delivering our energy plan, making South Australia more self-sufficient, and providing back up power and more affordable energy for South Australians this summer,” state Premier Jay Weatherill said in a statement.

Power Up With Positivity And Share The Good News With Your Friends

Perfect Love Story Ending: Widower Donates Life Insurance to Save Others From Medical Debt

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Good News Network

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May 14, 2018

Danny and Betty Roberson were married for sixteen years before she finally passed away in February – but their love is still changing the world for the better, even after she is gone.

Betty eventually succumbed to a tumor that had continued to grow in her body despite enduring months of chemotherapy. While she was receiving treatment, Danny had also been diagnosed with cancer in the form of a tumor that was in his face.

The devoted husband refused to get treatment for the tumor so they could use all of their finances to take care of Betty’s cancer.

After Betty’s passing, however, Danny finally allowed himself to get treatment for his facial tumor. He is now recovering from a successful surgery that had the tumor removed.

WATCH: Instead of Paying for Advertising, Church Abolishes $10M in Medical Debt For Local Families

Not only that, but he is carrying on Betty’s legacy in another way.

Danny recently donated $10,000 of Betty’s life insurance payout to the charity RIP Medical Debt, a nonprofit that buys out people’s medical debt for pennies on the dollar. This means that Danny’s donation will forgive about $1 million in medical debt – and he says that it’s all courtesy of Betty.

“When they go out and see that RIP medical envelope in their mail box, I know God is blessing them and I know Betty may have had a little bit to do with that,” Danny told NBCDFW.

(WATCH the emotional interview below)

Pass On This Inspiring Love Story To Your Friends And Share To Social Media – Photo by NBCDFW

Restaurant Staff Turns Mother’s Day Around For Sad Mom Eating Alone

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Good News Network

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May 14, 2018

When a team of servers at Ruby Tuesday found out that a lonely woman was eating by herself on Mother’s Day, they all pitched in to ensure that the neglected mom would feel special instead.

Barbara Foy had been feeling pretty down in the dumps when the Hallmark holiday rolled around on Sunday because she had not received a call from her son, who she says hasn’t called her in some time.

She then decided to go out to eat at the Ruby Tuesday restaurant at Surfside Beach, South Carolina.

When the servers saw her eating by herself, they were then heartbroken to hear that it’s because she was feeling lonely on Mother’s Day.

WATCH: Teacher’s Reaction to Students Surprising Him With ‘Dream Shoes’ is the Sweetest Thing You’ll See Today

General Manager Lauren Nave said that she and the other servers felt spurred to help.

“I think we were all almost in tears by the end of the story,” Nave told WMBF. “We wanted to make sure that she knew how special she was on Mother’s Day.”

So as a means of cheering her up, the servers quickly put together an elegant little gift basket of goodies. Not only that, but Foy’s meal was paid for and a random customer gave her a rose.

“I really felt like I was queen for a day…mother for a day!” said Foy. “I’ve never been made to feel so special.”

Click To Share The Sweet Story With Your Friends – Photo by Lauren Nave

“Forgiving is not forgetting. It’s letting go of the hurt.” – Mary McLeod Bethune

Quote of the Day

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Good News Network

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May 14, 2018

Quote of the Day: “Forgiving is not forgetting. It’s letting go of the hurt.” – Mary McLeod Bethune

With a new inspirational quote every day, atop the perfect photo—collected and archived on our Quotes page—why not bookmark GNN.org for a daily uplift?

Secretary Mimicked Her Boss for 67 yrs, Everyone is Shocked by Her Secret Fortune and What She Did With it

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McKinley Corbley

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May 13, 2018

LISTEN to this Good News Guru story, broadcast on the radio with Ellen K and Geri on KOST-103.5. (Also, subscribe to our new podcast on iTunes – or for Androids, on Podbean) — or READ the story below…

Sylvia Bloom worked as a secretary at the same New York City law firm for most of her life. A practical woman and a hard worker, to the outside world she was modest and lived a frugal lifestyle—but she had a secret practice no one knew about.

She earned a meager annual income, never talked about money, and wasn’t living the ‘high life’. She was never showy and didn’t want to call attention to herself.

“She was a child of the Depression and she knew what it was like not to have money..” Bloom’s niece Jane Lockshin told The New York Times. “She had great empathy for other people who were needy and wanted everybody to have a fair shake.”

Secretaries, in those days, ran their boss’s lives, including their investments. Whenever she would see her boss make a stock pick— and purchase it for him—she would buy the same stock for herself, but in smaller amounts befitting her secretary’s salary.

She kept track of all the investments until she finally retired at age 96. When she died shortly thereafter, it was discovered that Ms. Bloom had amassed a huge fortune.

LOOK: 27-Year-old With Terminal Cancer Pens Heartfelt Letter on Why You Should Change Your Life

She never told anyone about it, but before her retirement from Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, she had stashed away over nine million dollars.

“I don’t think she thought it was anybody’s business but her own,” says Lockshin.

She left some of it to friends and family in her will, but directed that all the rest was to be left to a charity in New York City that cares for the adults and children whom she thought needed it most.

WATCH: Father Surprises Son With Birthday Gift From Beyond the Grave

The endowment, $6.24 million to the Henry Street Settlement, is being used to create a college scholarship fund, which is especially fitting since Ms. Bloom always regretted not going to law school – but her incredible donation will ensure that plenty of New Yorkers will have the opportunities she never took—and maybe even graduate from law school!

Share The Inspiring Story of Brains And Kindness With Your Friends – Photo released by Jane Lockshin

The 7 Mental Health Benefits of Running That You May Not Know About

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Good News Network

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May 13, 2018

In the stressful times we live in, the importance of fitness and exercise cannot be highlighted enough. Many people tend to go for running since it is the most convenient option – after all, it only requires a pair of running shoes and your own motivation; and no equipment or gym membership is needed.

However, running does a lot more for your health than you may realize. In addition to keeping you fit, here are 7 ways that running also helps to improve your mood.

1. Switching Stress for Happiness Hormones

If you have had a stressful day at the office, then running is a fantastic way to relax. In fact, all forms of aerobic exercise balance out the harmful effects of stress hormones, such as cortisol, by producing endorphins – the happiness hormone. Endorphins act as natural antidepressants and boost mental health.

CHECK OUT: Girl Given Months to Live is Saved Thanks to Determined Mom Emailing 130 Doctors for Help

An increase of endorphins is the cause of what is known as the “runner’s high,” which runners describe as the feeling of peace and relaxation that they enjoy after a long run.

2. Bolsters Socializing

Running is also intertwined with the fundamental need for social relationships because running motivates us to get out there and meet fellow runners.

Though many people tend to schedule their runs with friends or family members, arranging running with the company is a fantastic way to improve social relationships in your workplace while also doing good for your body. Or, you can even join one of the group runs that are organized in spring so that runners can meet people with the same passion.

3. Better Sleep

Unlike stressing about work or running errands throughout the entire day, running uses up your energy in the best possible way. You will be tired, but not exhausted; so running limits insomnia by regulating your energy levels and sleep time.

Not only does running prepare you for an early sleep, but it also improves the quality of your sleep. Sleep, in general, is responsible for your mood – so it is pretty safe to say that running boosts your mood by “providing” you with a good night’s sleep.

4. Increased Energy Levels

While running makes you go to sleep easier and faster, it also keeps your energy levels high and stable – and we are not just talking about the immediate effects of “runner’s high.” It only takes three days of aerobic exercise per week to eliminate daily fatigue and lethargy in the long term.

This is because aerobic activities encourage blood flow to your brain and supply it with oxygen. This results in better function and an improved, up-lifted mood so you can be more motivated to do your daily tasks.

5. Upgraded Self-Esteem

When you run, it is you versus yourself. Sometimes you might want to stop and go home, or you will think about giving up and watching TV instead. However, when you keep running and push yourself to your limits, you train your mind to set goals and follow through with your intentions.

MORE: Alzheimer’s Gene is Neutralized in Human Brain Cells for the First Time

After achieving these goals, you may even motivated to set new, even more, challenging ones; and conquering obstacles is a great way to build up your confidence. This is why, in addition to boosting your self-esteem, running will help you learn to be patient with yourself and give everything your best shot.

6. Preparing You for Daily Tasks

Apart from improving your mood and making you feel physically better, running has also been proven to help your mental abilities because it keeps grey cells safer and healthier for longer, so runners have sharp mental abilities even when they are older.

Elder people who run regularly have been shown to be less moody and feel better and happier.

7. Enjoying Nature and Fresh Air

What can be more beneficial for your health than getting some fresh air and spending more time in nature?

Even by simply spending time in the sun and soaking up vitamin D, you will be doing good for yourself because vitamin D is known to reduce your chances of experiencing depressive symptoms.

Considering the mental and physical benefits of going for a run, it is no wonder that runners are more peaceful and positive people. You can use your daily jog as a means of spending time for yourself. You can relax and forget about your daily tasks and stressful life routine. You can relish the joy of improved self-esteem, a sharper mind, and higher energy levels.

So now that you’ve read this, what are you waiting for? Put on those running shoes and get going!

Mattea Jacobs is a freelance writer who mostly writes about both interior and exterior design, and environmentally-friendly ways to improve your home. She is also a green activist and a mother of two beautiful sons. You can reach her on Facebook and Instagram.

Run These Facts To Your Friends And Be Sure To Share On Social Media

90-Year-Old Credits ‘Words With Friends’ for Saving Her Life

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Good News Network

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May 13, 2018

While some people may scoff over social media and internet games, this 90-year-old woman is crediting Words With Friends for saving her life.

Every morning without fail, Miyoko Saiki uses her tablet to play Words With Friends with her son, who lives in another city, before he has to leave for work. In addition to it being a fun family activity, Saiki says the game keeps her mind sharp.

Recently, however, Saiki’s son logged onto the game’s app only to find that she was not online.

When he was unable to get a hold of her, the anxious family went to her house and found her unconscious on the floor.

She was later taken to the hospital and treated for pneumonia and dehydration.

Thankfully, Saiki is now in ship-shape and ready to celebrate her birthday next week – and she says that it is all thanks to her devotion to Words With Friends.

(WATCH the interview below)

Be Sure To Share The Lucky Story With Your Own Friends

Britain May Build ‘Road Network’ to Protect Bees, Butterflies, and Moths

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Good News Network

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May 13, 2018

Legislators are stepping up to protect important insects by proposing a “road network” that would act as a kind of wildlife corridor for bees, moths, and butterflies.

The “Protection of Pollinators Bill” was presented to the British House of Commons this week as a means of saving the dwindling pollinator population. If accepted, the legislation would allow conservationists to help communities and businesses plant wildflowers and shrubberies that nourish pollinating insects. These patches of greenery would then create pollinator corridors – or “B–lines”, as they’re also called – that could offer sanctuary to insects in every connecting region of Britain and allow them to fly freely across the countryside without being restricted to small patches of grassland.

The agricultural campaign would involve sprucing up roadside areas and identifying unused public areas that could be converted into leafier habitats, as managed by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

The proposal is a welcomed follow-up to the European Union’s recently-approved ban on pesticides that harm bees.

LOOK: The Grateful Dead Helps to Save Bees and Butterflies Through Jerry Garcia’s Legacy

Charities such as Buglife have already begun planning community initiatives for the corridors.

Conservative MP Ben Bradley introduced the bill in Parliament by saying: “Pollinators are facing unprecedented challenges, including climate change, intensive farming, pests and diseases, pesticide use and urban growth. They need food, water, shelter and nesting areas as well as the ability to roam far and wide—as they would naturally, without the barriers placed in their way as a result of urban sprawl. As the concrete jungle grows, their natural habitat inevitably shrinks.

MORE: Farmer is Sweet on Bee Hives As Perfect Fence to Keep Elephants Safely Away

“It is important to note that creating wildlife sanctuaries and protecting our green spaces will not only support our bees and insects; it will also have other positive outcomes for everything else. It will have a beneficial impact on our local communities, and on our individual mental health and wellbeing.

“That is as significant—if not more so—in deprived areas. Green spaces are places of tranquillity and provide a space away from the hustle, bustle and stresses of modern life—the more the merrier, in my view,” he added.

Beeee Sure To Share The Buzz With Your Friends – Photo by Danny Perez Photography

“A mother is not a person to lean on, but a person to make leaning unnecessary.” – Dorothy Canfield Fisher

Quote of the Day

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Good News Network

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May 13, 2018

Quote of the Day: “A mother is not a person to lean on, but a person to make leaning unnecessary.” – Dorothy Canfield Fisher

With a new inspirational quote every day, atop the perfect photo—collected and archived on our Quotes page—why not bookmark GNN.org for a daily uplift?

When Canine ‘Soulmates’ Can’t Be Kept Apart, Homeowners Relent and Work Together

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McKinley Corbley

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May 12, 2018

These star-crossed canine lovers could give Romeo and Juliet a run for their money.

Potate – or “Tate” for short – is a young pup who was a stray dog living on the streets when she was adopted by Hailee Graham. While she obviously adores her human family, she developed a deep connection with her neighbor: Vernon.

Around the same time that Graham adopted Tate, the next-door neighbor adopted a dog named Vernon – and even though there was a fence keeping the two pups apart, they became overwhelmed with the desire to be together.

Graham tells The Dodo that she would always come home to find Tate digging a hole under the fence, so she could be with Vernon.

LOOK: Clever Dog Always Brings a Leaf to ‘Buy’ Himself Treats at the Store

“I walk outside and catch them digging a tunnel to each other. We couldn’t get them to stop … we couldn’t keep them apart,” says Graham. “They would just keep digging holes to each other.”

While most people might just try and set up a play date for the pups at a doggy park, Graham had a better idea.

“I thought, ‘Why not just put a door in the fence, so they can play whenever, and their hoomans don’t have to get involved?’” she said.

WATCH: Butcher Politely Shows Meat Samples to Feline Customer Before Giving it a Free Sample

After getting consent from Vernon’s owner, Graham’s father installed a little doggy door in the fence – and it has been a huge success. Vernon and Tate are constantly playing in each other’s yards and going on little doggie dates at each other’s houses.

“They love being together!” Graham told The Dodo. “I don’t know if they are actually in love, but I like to think so.”

Oh happy slobber, this is thy treat! For never was there a tail of more love than that of Tate and Vernon!

Be Sure To Share a Pawesomely Sweet Story With Your Friends – Photos by Hailee Graham