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What’s Working

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

HopeResilienceGratitudeConnectionCourageKindnessCreativityGrowth

Topic

Resilience

People and communities bending without breaking.

YouTube
ResilienceNice News

The Women’s Pro Baseball League Launches Today — And It Has Something to Prove

The Women's Pro Baseball League (WPBL) has launched with an ambitious vision, seeking to carve out a permanent space in the sports world for female athletes. This league, reminiscent of the historical All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, aims to withstand the challenges that led to the dissolution of its predecessor. With trailblazers like Mo'ne Davis at the helm, the league is set to showcase women's passion and skill, offering a fresh dynamic to baseball enthusiasts.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
Instagram
ResilienceNice News

Jimothy the Raccoon Survived Against the Odds, a Testament to Sophisticated Brains and Devoted Mothers

Jimothy the raccoon, despite his physical challenges due to a rare condition known as short spine syndrome, has become an emblem of resilience and adaptability. His story, captivating millions online, highlights the sophisticated neural capabilities of raccoons, which include high neuron densities and the presence of von Economo neurons. These attributes likely contribute to Jimothy's ability to navigate the wild successfully, showcasing the evolutionary prowess of raccoon brains.

  • Perseverance
  • Courage
  • Love
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

Woman grieving her mom’s death shows how surreal it is to parent with a broken heart

Navigating the tumultuous waters of grief while fulfilling the demanding role of a parent is a profound challenge, as illustrated by Nicole, who shares her journey on social media. Her candid video captures the raw duality of her experience: the grief of losing her mother juxtaposed with the immediate demands of her young child. Despite her tears, she remains present, engaging with her toddler's innocent curiosity about a boat, demonstrating a delicate balance between personal sorrow and parental duty.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Love
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

Dad describes the moment he realized he couldn’t raise his daughter in the United States

In a poignant reflection shared through social media, a father recounts the moment he realized he could not continue raising his daughter in the United States. While visiting a bustling café in Spain, he was struck by the absence of firearms—a stark contrast to his experiences in St. Louis, Missouri, where the omnipresence of guns and the anxiety they induce had become a normalized burden. This revelation, coupled with his wife's concerns as a former teacher about the safety of school environments in the U.S., catalyzed their decision to relocate to Spain.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Hope
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

An 18-year-old spent 3 years building a house for class. She lives in it now.

Victoria Turner's story is a testament to the power of hands-on education and the kind of transformative experiences that shape young lives. At just 18, Victoria not only gained a unique skill set through her high school's construction program but also constructed a home she now resides in. This remarkable journey from classroom to homeownership—marked by dedication, resilience, and a touch of serendipity—highlights the vital role of career and technical education in preparing students for real-world challenges.

  • Perseverance
  • Courage
  • Hope
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

A 123-year-old Japanese sweets shop in Los Angeles finally gets the spotlight it deserves

Fugetsu-Do, a 123-year-old Japanese sweets shop in Los Angeles, stands as a testament to resilience and cultural continuity in the face of adversity. Nestled in Little Tokyo, the shop is more than just a purveyor of mochi and manju; it is a vibrant symbol of Japanese-American heritage and community endurance. The Kito family, who founded and continue to run the shop, have navigated the tumultuous waters of history, from surviving World War II internment to reclaiming their place in a rapidly evolving cityscape.

  • Perseverance
  • Hope
  • Gratitude
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

30-second Japanese gargle hack could save your family from back-to-school colds

In a world where back-to-school often heralds the start of 'Sicktember,' a simple yet effective Japanese tradition offers a beacon of hope. The practice of 'ugai,' or gargling with a saltwater solution, is a time-honored method in Japan for preventing colds and respiratory infections. This low-cost, easy-to-incorporate habit has been part of Japanese daily routines since the 1930s, advocated by health officials as a proactive measure against seasonal illnesses. Recent studies support its efficacy, showing that a saline rinse can effectively remove viral particles before they have a chance to take hold, reducing incidences of colds and related illnesses.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Perseverance
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

She applied for a job while living in her truck. She left with the job and a place to sleep.

In a testament to resilience and community support, Jovanda Taylor's story unfolds as a beacon of hope amidst adversity. Having moved from New Orleans to Houston in search of a fresh start, Taylor found herself grappling with the harsh realities of homelessness after her nursing certification failed to transfer across state lines. Despite the challenges, she persevered, applying to over twenty jobs before Maison de Lafayette in Louisiana offered her not only employment but a temporary place to stay, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the nursing facility and a local nonprofit.

  • Perseverance
  • Courage
  • Kindness
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

He let the weed everyone was fighting take over. It grew into a forest, then died out on its own.

In a bold departure from conventional land management, botanist Hugh Wilson transformed a gorse-covered, exhausted hill country into thriving native forest on New Zealand's Banks Peninsula by doing the unthinkable: nothing. Instead of battling the spiny European shrub that had long plagued farmers, Wilson allowed it to grow, recognizing its potential as a 'nurse crop'—a protective, nurturing cover under which native seedlings could grow unmolested by grazing animals. Over time, the native trees overtopped the gorse, shading it out and allowing it to die naturally, thus regenerating the ecosystem without aggressive human intervention.

  • Courage
  • Perspective
  • Hope
YouTube
ResilienceRainforest Connection

AI that listens for chainsaws now guards 726,000 hectares of rainforest

In a world where deforestation poses a relentless threat to our planet's lungs, Rainforest Connection (RFCx) has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to become the vigilant steward of over 726,000 hectares of rainforest. By deploying bioacoustic devices that listen for the ominous hum of chainsaws, as well as other threats like poaching and forest fires, RFCx has created a sophisticated network capable of real-time intervention. This innovative approach not only guards against illegal activities but also enhances biodiversity monitoring, offering a comprehensive picture of the ecosystem's health.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Hope
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

‘Worst aquarium ever’: Whaling museum gets 1-star review. They turn it into best-selling merch.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum, located in Massachusetts, transformed a potentially damaging one-star review into a humorous marketing triumph. Dubbed the 'worst aquarium ever' by an unwitting Google reviewer, the museum is, in fact, a historical institution focused on the whaling industry rather than an aquarium. Embracing this misunderstanding with good humor, the museum's Chief Engagement Officer, Annelise Conway, capitalized on the situation by launching a line of merchandise proudly proclaiming the museum's unique status. These items quickly became best-sellers, demonstrating the power of humor and resilience in turning criticism into opportunity.

  • Humor
  • Perspective
  • Creativity
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Scientists use brain scans to show love and heartbreak actually rewire your brain

In a remarkable intersection of neuroscience and emotion, recent studies reveal that love and heartbreak are not mere metaphors for brain activity but real, measurable phenomena that physically alter our neural pathways. Scientists, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), have pinpointed the ventral tegmental area (VTA) as the epicenter of romantic love. This discovery underscores that love is not just an emotion but a fundamental drive akin to hunger or thirst, deeply embedded in our survival instincts. The research highlights how our brains, through increased blood flow in specific areas, integrate our loved ones into the very fabric of our biological imperatives.

  • Curiosity
  • Hope
  • Courage
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Stop feeling anxious with expert’s ‘CAT’ method to switch off and ‘flatline’ anxiety

In an era where anxiety is a common companion, Martha Beck's 'CAT' method offers a refreshing approach to managing the mental clutter that often accompanies stress. Developed by the Harvard-trained sociologist, the 'CAT' method—standing for Calm, Art, and Transcendence—encourages individuals to first approach their anxiety with kindness, imagining themselves as nurturing figures to their own vulnerable selves. This compassionate self-dialogue sets the stage for the next step, Art, which involves redirecting anxious energy into creative pursuits, thereby interrupting the cycle of worry. The final step, Transcendence, invites individuals to connect with a broader perspective, fostering a sense of unity and purpose that can alleviate the isolating nature of anxiety.

  • Kindness
  • Creativity
  • Perspective
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

Bored by the same activities? Try some ‘Type 2’ fun. The joy hits later, but lasts a lot longer.

In a world increasingly driven by instant gratification, the concept of 'Type 2' fun offers a refreshing antidote. Unlike 'Type 1' fun, which is characterized by immediate pleasure and minimal effort, 'Type 2' fun involves activities that challenge us physically or mentally, often leading to discomfort in the moment but yielding profound satisfaction upon reflection. Imagine a grueling hike in adverse weather: the immediate experience may be unpleasant, but the sense of achievement and the memories it creates can be deeply rewarding. This delayed gratification not only enriches our personal narratives but also builds resilience, as we learn to embrace and overcome challenges, fostering a growth mindset.

  • Courage
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

Lamine Yamal was asked about ‘the pressure to carry Spain at just 18.’ His mature response was beautiful.

Lamine Yamal, at just 18 years old, has already become a beacon of maturity and perspective, as demonstrated by his response to the pressures of being a star athlete. When asked about handling the immense expectations placed on him as a key player for Spain's national team, Yamal humbly remarked that the real pressure was faced by his parents, who struggled to provide for their family. This response not only highlights his gratitude and grounded nature but also shifts the focus from his personal achievements to the broader, more challenging aspects of life that many endure.

  • Gratitude
  • Perspective
  • Humility
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

Women share how they overhauled their lives after 40, and it’s gloriously inspiring

In a world where the narrative often suggests that life must be settled by midlife, a group of spirited women are rewriting the script, proving that reinvention is not bound by age. Deena Lang, a social media creator on the cusp of a significant career shift at 46, sought comfort and solidarity from her peers, asking for stories of women who had leapt into the unknown after 40. The responses were nothing short of inspiring, featuring tales of women who ditched conventional paths to embrace new passions—from becoming an aerial cyclist to moving to Norway to skipper whale-watching tours.

  • Courage
  • Hope
  • Curiosity
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

People shared their secret for exercising when they don’t feel like it. Four ‘tricks’ dominated.

In a world where the call to exercise often meets an inner voice of resistance, individuals are sharing pragmatic and surprisingly effective strategies to overcome inertia. The article highlights four dominant methods: taking the first step without overthinking, valuing consistency over intensity, focusing on the positive feelings post-exercise, and making workouts enjoyable by integrating them with other activities. These approaches are not just about physical movement but about crafting a mindset where the smallest motion forward can unravel the knot of hesitation.

  • Perseverance
  • Hope
  • Curiosity
Vimeo
ResilienceReasons to be Cheerful

What If We Never Built Another New Building?

In the realm of architecture, Swiss architect Barbara Buser stands out not for erecting new monuments but for her commitment to preserving and repurposing the old. Her philosophy is encapsulated in her work on K.118, a project that uses 70 percent reclaimed materials, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. Buser’s approach, which prioritizes the social value of architecture over profit, challenges the traditional norms of the construction industry. Her projects, like the transformation of the Gundeldinger Feld and Basel’s historic Markthalle, showcase how reimagining existing structures can foster community engagement and reduce environmental impact.

  • Gratitude
  • Hope
  • Courage
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

A blind woman reached out and touched a tree she couldn’t see. She’d ‘heard’ it standing there.

Molly Burke, a blind advocate and content creator, recently shared a captivating moment on TikTok where she demonstrated the use of passive echolocation, a skill she learned as a child. While walking through a park, she was able to 'hear' a tree standing silently before her, a phenomenon she describes as the tree being 'loud' due to its interruption of the ambient soundscape. This skill, which relies on detecting sound shadows or the way objects alter surrounding noises, highlights a profound adaptation that allows blind individuals to navigate the world without sight.

  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
  • Hope
Instagram
ResilienceInstagram

Messi on getting out of a rut: stop thinking, make one good play

Lionel Messi’s approach to breaking out of a rut on the football field offers a profound lesson in behavioral activation. By prioritizing action over reflection, Messi demonstrates that confidence is not something to be pondered into existence but rather cultivated through small, deliberate acts. This method, deeply rooted in the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy, suggests that momentum and flow can be reignited through micro-wins—small successes that cumulatively restore confidence and drive.

  • Perseverance
  • Courage
  • Hope
TikTok
ResilienceUpworthy

At 51, she had just $5,000 to her name. When she died at 101, she had turned it into $22 million.

Anne Scheiber's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-education. After retiring from a career with the IRS at 51 with only $5,000, she taught herself to invest and amassed a fortune of $22 million by the time of her death at 101. Her approach to investing was marked by patience and a focus on long-term growth, echoing the strategies of legendary investors like Warren Buffett. Yet, despite her wealth, she lived modestly and left her entire fortune to Yeshiva University to support scholarships for Jewish women, reflecting both her personal experiences with discrimination and her commitment to empowering others.

  • Perseverance
  • Curiosity
  • Gratitude
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

The real reason why every railroad in America has the same rocks lining the tracks

In a world where the grandiose often takes center stage, the humble rocks lining America's railroad tracks remind us of the power of unassuming ingenuity. Known as 'track ballast,' these jagged stones are more than mere ground cover; they are the unsung heroes of railway infrastructure. By distributing the immense weight of trains, preventing soil compaction, and allowing for necessary track flexibility, these rocks ensure safe and efficient travel across the country.

  • Curiosity
  • Perspective
  • Gratitude
YouTube
ResilienceUpworthy

Doctors couldn’t identify what was killing a baby in 1977 until a nurse remembered a line from an Agatha Christie book

In a remarkable intersection of fiction and reality, a nurse's recollection of a line from Agatha Christie's novel 'The Pale Horse' led to a breakthrough in diagnosing a critically ill toddler in 1977. The child, flown to London from Qatar, exhibited symptoms that mystified medical professionals until nurse Marsha Maitland connected the dots between the girl's hair loss and the thallium poisoning described in Christie's book. This insight prompted an urgent investigation that confirmed the presence of thallium, a pesticide, in the child's system, allowing for life-saving treatment.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
Instagram
ResilienceUpworthy

The ‘Claw Master’ hacked claw machine games by discovering the perfect drop spot

In a whimsical yet insightful twist on the classic arcade game, The Claw Master, known as Myooran, has captivated millions by unraveling the mystery of claw machines. His playful tutorials, shared widely on social media, guide enthusiasts on how to outsmart these notoriously tricky machines, shifting focus from the toy to the strategic drop. His techniques, like the 'swing trick,' have not only delighted audiences but also demystified a game often criticized for being rigged, offering a sense of empowerment and possibility.

  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Hope

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HopeGratitudeConnectionCourageKindnessCreativityGrowth