In the last few months and, more recently, the last few weeks, countless acts of terrorism, hate, and violence have erupted. Innocent lives have been lost and hateful messages have been spread throughout the media. Sure, with all the technology there comes a myriad of social media platforms to plaster the horrible news on. Thus, there seems to be something horrible to talk about daily. That being said, it feels as if people aren’t spreading love anymore.

When I go on my phone or turn on the TV, all I see is the negative. And while there is a whole bunch of good in this world, none of that is articulated. And so, we only focus on this negative aspect of the world that is being highlighted on the media.

But let’s jump back to the good. Let’s celebrate the good. Because it is still out there. In places you wouldn’t imagine.

If you’re finding it hard to see the good, here are a few small good things to smile about.

1. The feeling of a dog’s fur against your hand

2. Laughing so much that your cheeks and stomach hurt, even when the joke wasn’t that funny

3. Seeing your family members after a long period of time

4. A nice, sunny day after seemingly endless cold winter months

5. A good grade on a test you studied hard for

6. A good grade on a test that you thought you didn’t study enough for

7. An ice-cream cone on a hot summer day

8. A baby’s laughter

9. The company of old friends

10. The company of new friends

11. Spontaneous adventures somewhere you haven’t visited before

12. Spontaneous adventures somewhere you have visited before

13. The pain that hurts so good after a workout

14. A motivating word from someone when you’re feeling down

15. The breeze touching your skin on a crisp autumn day

16. The feeling of soft grass against your skin

17. The taste of a freshly picked apple

18. The purchase of a new article of clothing

19. Wearing that new article of clothing

20. A long hug from someone you love

So as you can see, there’s a lot to be happy about. Sometimes all it takes is a look around, and you’ll find there’s more to smile about than you thought.