Where are the good news stories?

There are so many stories of how people are attacked, killed and live in fear and yes they are all true, especially in South Africa, and I am sure all over the world. We only have to turn on the television or listen to the radio to know that evil is all around.

I want to read the good news stories; I  want to know that no matter how much evil there is in the world, there is an equal amount of good. Yes, there is, and there are so many inspirational stories of how people overcome the deadliest trauma, and it is these people that tell us there is good in the world.

Recently I had an opportunity to spent some time at an old age home. I was able to talk to the retired people and even though there is so much sadness, their story about how they cope, how blessed and happy they are is amazing. Importantly is the simplicity of their lives. 

At a particularly old age home, most people go about their daily lives, grateful for the little things they have, another day, a warm place to stay in and food to eat. It is the humble attitude and way of life that strikes me as the key to real joy.

The friendship and sincerity of these senior citizens are genuine, and it is the humble way of living that has given me strength to see the beauty of life. There are plenty of planned activities for the residents to get involved with, such a pudding morning. The eagerness to contribute amazes me, they bake, cook and serve the desserts with pride and delight to the residents. It is a small and probably insignificant story, but it is a big story of how humbleness can generate a joy to overcome the reality of the evil in the world.

The residents listen to the news and show concern about the terrible crime situation in South Africa, but they also know that there is the higher power that protects them. Their faith in G-d is astonishing, and most believe that by applying the truth of the Word of G-d in their daily lives, they can overcome evil. Their motto is “Overcome Evil with Good”. I thought about this for awhile and must agree, if we can apply our minds, deeds and actions to overcome evil with good, then we will send out good into the universe, and the good will overcome. 

Some of the residents do not have much in the material sense but are wealthy in knowledge, wisdom, and love. The grateful attitude is the key to their happiness, and it is the gratitude that is the real good news story. 

I believe I am blessed to be among humble people and learn.