SALT LAKE CITY — It's common to read tragic and crime-related stories in the news, and KSL.com strives to find the good in the world and share those stories with our readers.

If you're in need of some uplifting news, read the following stories.

Going out of her way to serve

Marianne C. "Inspirational Donna is a woman who lives in the subsidized housing complex where I work. She is in a wheelchair, yet is often seen outside doing yardwork, for free, out of the goodness of her heart. I have seen her shoveling snow, raking leaves, pulling weeds and picking up garbage all from her wheelchair. One morning this week as I came to work, she was sweeping the garbage out of the gutter and putting it in a bucket to throw away. She is always smiling and pleasant. She is amazing."

A good example of happiness

Lindsay F. "A few weeks ago, my kids and I had the opportunity of taking some clothes, toys and living essentials to a Somalian refugee family. This family had 11 kids, including newborn twins, and came with literally nothing. It was a very humbling and eye opening experience for not only my kids, but for me as well.

"What stood out to me most about the experience was how sweet and happy the mother was; smiling ear to ear the entire time we were there. Although she didn’t speak English, I could tell she was so relieved and grateful to be in a place that was safe and that she and her family were receiving help to get their lives started in this new place. It was a good reminder to me that we truly need very little beyond the safety of our families and our basic needs being met, and beyond that, our happiness lies in how we choose to react to life and the situations we find ourselves in. And, those kids were absolutely adorable!"

Share Your Story:

Have you seen any moments of service or kindness? Do you want to share a story about something that made your day? Email a brief story (100 words or fewer) along with any photos or video to <a href="mailto:crosenlof@ksl.com">mchristensen@ksl.com</a>.

God bless AmericaAmanda N.

"This last Thursday afternoon, my not yet 2-year-old and I stopped into LD's Cafe so I could have a quick chat with Lori Bowcutt, LD Bowcutt and Ann Bowcutt. My little guy Will is in love with American flags, and while a table of four were awaiting service in U.S. uniform, he spotted the American flag patch on the arm of your uniform. He insisted he had to 'touch it,' and you let him. Made his entire day. "I shortly left with him in his stroller, and as I did, quietly paid for your tables' meal. Not a drop in the bucket for the amount of gratitude I have for you and all who serve. On the short walk home, all my son could talk about was your 'flag.'

"Upon returning tonight, as I work there, I was in tears and so humbled as your waitress handed me these patches you had taken off your uniforms and left them for my son as a thank you for the meal. I have never felt so honored, grateful and humbled in my life. I ran home to share this beautiful story and show my little guy who literally went ecstatic over them. I have tucked them away for now until he is older, but I truly hope that somehow this reaches the group of you. It is appreciated more than you'll ever know. My heart is full. God bless all of you and thank you for your service!!!"

Related topics