From Homeless to Valedictorian

Also: A police officer goes above and beyond for a 5-year-old, parents surprise their son with a billboard to celebrate his graduation, and more.

Hi Friends! 👋

Today, we're going back in time to celebrate the moment when Big Ben, the world's largest four-faced, chiming clock, started ticking for the first time in 1859. This iconic London landmark has since become a symbol of the United Kingdom and the continuity of its great history.

Constructed during the reign of Queen Victoria, Big Ben's chimes have marked the passing of hours for more than a century, serving as a timeless reminder of our shared past and the enduring promise of the future. Even after all these years, it continues to inspire awe in both locals and visitors alike.

Now, let's shift our focus to the top positive news stories from around the globe! 👇

Quote of the Day 🗣

“Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give.”

— Eleanor Roosevelt

From Homeless to Valedictorian 🎓

via Garrett Johnson

Against all odds, Jasmine Mazard-Larry graduated valedictorian of her high school class with an impressive 8.07 GPA, four years after she and her family became homeless due to a fire that destroyed their home. This journey, marked by immense personal challenges, was shared by Mazard-Larry during her valedictory address. In an inspirational tone, she reminded her classmates that "rejection doesn’t mean you failed. Rejection means to just be patient. Your time will come," and to never give up on their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they face.

Mazard-Larry’s resilience is a testament to her strength and character. In addition to overcoming homelessness, she also dealt with ADHD and hearing loss, which she first saw as weaknesses but now views as catalysts for her perseverance and resilience. Her mother, Nidta Mazard, acknowledged this resilience, praising Mazard-Larry as a light in their lives and for inspiring her to be a better person. Amid all these trials, Mazard-Larry also managed to enroll in advanced classes, participate in the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education program, and even earned an associate's degree from a local community college. "I use my little brother as my motivation," she said. "I want to be a role model for him."

Police Officer Goes Above and Beyond For 5-Year-Old's Birthday 👮‍♂️

via Middletown Police Department / Facebook

In a heartwarming gesture that created a memorable birthday for a five-year-old boy, Middletown School Resource Officer Emilio Magnano went above and beyond his call of duty. The son of a high school employee was having a police-themed birthday party, and Magnano had initially planned to have some officers on duty stop by. However, with the department experiencing a busy day, Magnano took it upon himself to attend the party on his day off, even suiting up with permission from the department.

Upon his arrival, Magnano surprised the birthday boy with a police officer costume, a gesture that elicited awe and happiness from not only the children but also from the adults present. "To see the look of amazement on all the kids' faces was incredible. Even my 85-year-old grandfather was pleased to see an officer do this great deed for the community," Kiarra Bennett, a relative of the birthday boy, expressed in a letter to the police department. This act by Officer Magnano not only marked a special birthday for a young boy but also served as a wonderful example of community engagement by the police department.

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Fantastic Finds 🔍

We’re proud of you, son. Parents surprise their son with a billboard to celebrate his medical school graduation.

Albino bison baby. A rare White Bison was born at Wyoming’s Bear River State Park.

Hope for a cancer treatment. A groundbreaking Israeli cancer treatment has shown an early 90% success rate.

One courageous pup. An unbelievable dog gives birth to 7 puppies after surviving a rattlesnake bite.

🎥 A choir reunion. Former students return to their high school to sing with their retiring chorus teacher.

Hapi Hit 😊

Watch Tom Hank’s commencement speech he gave to the Harvard University’s Class of 2023.

HapiReview of the Day 🎉

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