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SALT LAKE CITY — As a journalist, it's heartbreaking to be at the forefront of the tragic news that hits our state regularly.
Luckily, there is also news of wonderful people doing wonderful things. KSL.com strives to make your Monday better each week by sharing inspiring stories from our readers.
To send in the stories that have made your day better, email them in 100 words or less to mchristensen@ksl.com. Photos and videos are encouraged.
A salty snack
Patricia B.
"Several months ago, my husband dropped our kids (5 and 2) and I off at the St. George Children's Museum while he ran some errands that were not kid friendly. He was gone a bit longer than planned, and so after the kids were bored and out of snacks, we ended up wandering into an art festival/street fair that was going on next door.
"My son decided he wanted popcorn, and since I was hungry too we got in line. My kids were so patient while we waited for almost 10 minutes, only to get to the front of the line and discover that they didn't take cards, and I was out of cash. Not knowing what else to do, I just told the kids we couldn't get any popcorn today and we started to walk away. The lady that had been behind us in line stopped me and offered to buy a small bag of popcorn, because she hated to see kids disappointed. I was so grateful for her kindness, it really made our week."
"Well you look nice today."
Rachel P.
"Though physical appearance isn't everything, it sometimes shows how one feels about oneself. I've developed a routine of running around on my days off with poor choices of clothing — old, ratty, but what I consider 'comfy.' I rarely put on makeup, and my hairstyle is a mere ponytail. Needless to say, I've lost a lot of respect and confidence in myself.
"Well, one random day I decided to curl my hair, put on makeup and wear a casual sundress before I went to the store. At the store, an older gentleman who appeared down on his luck made eye contact with me, smiled and said, 'Well you look nice today.' I responded, "Thank you, that was very nice of you to say.' I have no idea who this gentleman was (and truly a gentleman), but this simple act of kindness made my day. The few words he said to me, spontaneous at most, put a smile on my face and confidence in my heart."
Neighborly kindness
Kimberly S.
"Our neighbors have had a really rough couple of years. Last year, the wife battled cancer, and this year she is battling another cancer that could possibly end her life. We have gathered donations of money, and in-kind donations and donated more than 400 hours of time toward painting their home, placing a sprinkling system and tonight we are laying sod. The best part: They don't know.
"They will return the evening of Monday, June 27 from taking their choir on a two-week singing tour of Sydney and New Zealand. We have created a secret Facebook page and chronicled our adventures. It's been a wonderful opportunity to serve this family, and if our service can influence others to do a good deed, we would hope that is the take away of our story. Love your neighbor."
