I know, I know. 2020 was a year none of us will forget, and not because of its good news. But amidst the pandemic and politics were some truly remarkable stories, many of which you probably didn't hear. For instance, did you know that:
The majority of the world’s countries - 113 countries - have reduced their armed forces, 100 have reduced military expenditure, and both imports and exports of weapons have reached their lowest levels since 2009?
New research this year showed that during the 2000s and 2010s, the earnings share of the world's poorest half doubled?
The number of major global companies committed to reducing their environmental impact increased by 46% in the last twelve months--and that includes Apple and Walmart?
(from Future Crunch)
Or did you hear about:
The hotel that stayed open to house the homeless, who then repaid the favor by doing odd jobs and repairs?
The city that now turns more than 80% of its plastic recyclables into lumber?
The businessman who discovered the world’s largest model train set in his new warehouse, and rather than tear it down, spent $250,000 to repair it for the community?
(from The Good News Network)
Or about:
The recovered addict who donated a kidney to the police officer who had once arrested her?
The Sihk Center of New York, which fed more than 145,000 people in two months--for free?
The middle school robotics team who stayed up all night to create more than 100 3D-printed face shields for healthcare workers on their way to the Navajo reservation, and then went on to make and donate 1400 more across the nation?
The rival gangs who declared a truce so they could deliver food to the needy?
(from KindSpring)
You'll notice I provided links to the sites where I found these stories. I hope you'll visit them and feel buoyed by the good news and goodness. And I hope you'll share this post, so everyone can see that there are stars even in the darkest nights.
Onward!
Subscribe to weekly good news posts from plentynice here.