Ariana Grande surprised an NYC Marathon runner with a kind note she wrote while watching the race
In the bustling atmosphere of the NYC Marathon, where over 59,000 runners were cheered on by 200,000 spectators, a small yet heartfelt gesture added a layer of personal warmth to the grand event. Pop star Ariana Grande, attending incognito, was approached by content creator Ella Schweiger to contribute to Ella's Envelope, a project handing out kind notes to runners. Grande's participation, though understated, was a beacon of positivity, as her note, 'You did it!' signed with hearts, found its way to a runner named Ellie. The connection was serendipitous, as Ellie had been motivated by Grande's music during her grueling race.
This story underscores the power of small acts of kindness and the unexpected connections they can forge. It highlights how celebrity influence, when used with sincerity in everyday contexts, can have a profound impact. For Ellie, the note was more than a message; it was a symbol of support that resonated deeply, illustrating how collective encouragement from strangers and loved ones alike fuels endurance in challenging times.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The challenge is the physical and mental endurance required to complete a marathon.
- The actions
- Ella Schweiger facilitated the distribution of kind notes to runners, and Ariana Grande contributed by writing a personal message.
- Evidence of progress
- Ellie's emotional response to receiving Grande's note and her testimony about the support from her friends and family are evidence of the positive impact.
- What we can learn
- This initiative shows that simple, thoughtful acts can significantly uplift individuals and that leveraging personal influence for kindness can have meaningful effects.
PERMA profile of this story
How this story scores across the PERMA dimensions.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 7
- Relationships
- 9
- Meaning
- 6
- Accomplishment
- 5
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Kindness
Grande was all in when asked to write a kind note for a runner, showcasing her willingness to spread positivity.
Gratitude
Ellie expressed her gratitude for the note, especially since she had been listening to Grande's music for motivation.
Love
Ellie pointed to her friends and family as her main sources of support during the marathon, highlighting the love that carried her through.
Try this today
Next time you're at an event or in a public space, try writing a note of encouragement or thanks to someone who looks like they could use a boost. Notice how this act impacts both you and the recipient.