Every year, towards the end, we all hope for next year to be better. I've seen people using hateful words towards 2016 on twitter, instagram and facebook. Let us take the time to remember the good things that happened in the past year.
1. The relationship between the United States and Cuba has improved.
President Obama was the first U.S. leader to visit Cuba in 88 years. Embassies have been opened and commercial flights to Cuba are available.
2. The Olympics with Simone Biles and Michael Phelps proving they are champions.
3. Sea World agreed to stop breeding captive killer whales.
Three years ago, the documentary "Blackfish", explained what happened during the death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau. Since then, there has been criticism on how SeaWorld treats their animals and they have agreed with the Humane Society of the United States to end their orca breeding program.
4. Ellen received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
5. Ice Bucket challenged raised funds for ALS research and awareness.
6. Leonardo DiCaprio won an Oscar.
7. Volunteers in India planted 50 million trees within 24 hours.
8. Shows like "Gilmore Girls" and "Full House" had new seasons on Netflix.
9. During the holiday season, Toys R Us offered quiet shopping hours for kids with autism.
10. Everyone fell in love with new tv shows including "Stranger Things" and "This Is Us".
11. The Cubs won the World Series.
12. McDonald's started serving breakfast all day.
13. Unemployment rate was at its lowest since the recession.
The unemployment rate in November fell to 4.6 percent, the lowest it's been in nine years.
14. Giant Pandas are no longer endangered.
Instead the species have been defined as "vulnerable" meaning that their population is growing because of poaching bans and expanding forest reserves.
15. Oprah Winfrey interviewed First Lady Michelle Obama.
In December, two of America's female role models were on screen together. Oprah Winfrey interviewed Michelle Obama while she prepares to exit the White House. The interview aired on CBS and covered a wide range of topics, but it was lovely to hear these two women talk about our country.
16. The population of tigers has risen for the first time in a century.
And there you have it. 16 good things that happened in 2016. While they might not outnumber the bad, there is always a bright side.
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
Taylor Swift in a purple coat, captivating the crowd on stage.
Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
