Monday, June 29, 2026

What’s Working

For readers looking for what’s still working in the world

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3-year-old ventures outside in the pitch black to save his great-grandma after scary fall

In the heartwarming tale of young Bridger Peabody, a three-year-old's courage shines brightly against the backdrop of a family emergency. When his great-grandmother, Sharon Lewis, suffered a severe fall, Bridger demonstrated an extraordinary act of bravery by venturing into the dark to retrieve a phone from a car so she could call for help. His actions were not only a testament to his courage but also a reminder of the profound influence that educational media, like his beloved 'Paw Patrol,' can have on young minds.

Bridger's story captivated the internet, sparking admiration and affirming the power of simple acts of heroism. As Lewis recovered from her injuries, the bond between her and Bridger was strengthened, highlighting the enduring impact of shared experiences in nurturing relationships. This incident illustrates how even the youngest among us can rise to the occasion, drawing on lessons of bravery and kindness from unexpected sources, and serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.

Constructive analysis

The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.

The problem
The challenge was the immediate need for help after Sharon Lewis's fall, with no one else around to assist.
The actions
Bridger, despite his fear of the dark, retrieved a phone from the car so his great-grandmother could call 911.
Evidence of progress
The successful retrieval of the phone allowed emergency services to arrive and provide the necessary medical attention.
What we can learn
Others can learn the importance of instilling courage and problem-solving skills in children, emphasizing that even young children can act decisively in emergencies.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story

Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.

Positive Emotion
8
Engagement
9
Relationships
10
Meaning
9
Accomplishment
8
PERMA

Character strengths in play

Top VIA strengths this story embodies.

  • Courage

    Bridger braved the dark channeling his inner Paw Patrol character to help his great-grandmother.

  • Kindness

    His actions were a testament to his courage and a reminder of the influence of educational media.

  • Hope

    The story captivated the internet, sparking admiration and affirming the power of simple acts of heroism.

Try this today

Inspired by Bridger's bravery, take a moment to reflect on a fear that holds you back. Write down one small step you can take toward facing it this week, channeling the courage of a hero from your favorite story.