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Little Boys Notice Their Neighbors House Is on Fire - Rush to Rescue Toddlers Stuck Inside Despite Being Really Scared
Uplifting News

Little Boys Notice Their Neighbors House Is on Fire - Rush to Rescue Toddlers Stuck Inside Despite Being Really Scared

Two young heroes stepped up in a big way in Oakland, Florida when a fire roared nearby. 10-year-old Isiah Francis and 11-year-old Jeremiah Grimes were minding their business when they saw smoke rising up in their neighborhood. What Two Young Boys Did When They Saw a House on FireUnsplash/ Chris KaridisThey quickly noticed that their neighbor's home was on fire, and rushed inside without a second thought. Navigating through heavy smoke and impending panic, the two heroes safely retrieved a 1-year-old and an 8-month-old from the burning house. It is not as if the two were unafraid of the situation, but they had the remarkable courage to overcome their fear -- the true mark of bravery. "I was really scared because I thought I was going to get burned," Isiah even told a local news outlet in Orlando. "I was nervous because there was so much smoke it was hard for me to see," he added. Despite feeling scared, unable to see, and risking his own wellbeing, Isiah and his friend charged into that burning house to save two toddlers. Forget their age, many in that frightening position might have frozen, or called the appropriate authorities. The quick-thinking to charge directly into the home, however, very well could have made the difference between life and death for the two young children they retrieved. How Two Boys Proved That There Is No Age Limit to Being a HeroTheir selfless act of bravery reverberated throughout the community, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration. News of their heroism spread, captivating the hearts of people across the country. These two are certainly destined to grow into brave young men. Isiah even said he has dreams of becoming a firefighter some day, and he certainly has more experience than most 11 year olds.The cause of the blaze has not been determined, but it is believed to have started on the stove. It is unclear why the father was unable to get all four of his children out of the home, or why the fire began. However, it is certain that Isiah and Jeremiah saved the day. While, hopefully we don't have to run into a burning home any time soon, we can all draw inspiration from the bravery displayed by these two boys. True heroism doesn't lie in accolades or recognition, but in the sum of decisions like these that come to define us.Isiah and Jeremiah's selfless act will forever serve as a reminder that each of us has the capacity to be a hero in our own unique way.Heroism also isn't reserved for a certain age group, and these two showed why everyone possesses the ability to become a hero in the right circumstance. More from Goalcast:Woman Leaves Her Newborn Baby Girl in a Drop Box – The Firefighter Who Found Her Just Became Her DadHomeless Man Heroically Saves an Entire Family and Their Pets From a Blazing Residential FireMom and Her 2 Kids Are Trapped in an Apartment Fire – One Local Homeless Man Tells Them All to Drop Out of the Window

Mother of 7 Graduates College as Valedictorian After 10 Years - A Note From Her Daughter Helped Her Overcome Various Hurdles
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Mother of 7 Graduates College as Valedictorian After 10 Years - A Note From Her Daughter Helped Her Overcome Various Hurdles

Ashley Payne's college graduation was unlike any other. While the occasion is momentous for anyone, it was made all the more special for Ashley as she balanced raising 7 children, and health complications, with her studies. Not only did Ashley complete her undergraduate studies at the age of 35, but she did so as the valedictorian of her class!How One Woman Was Inspired by Her Daughter’s Post-it NotePhoto by Lisa FotiosUnfortunately, Ashley's academic career was originally sidelined when she had a pulmonary embolism at only 18 years old -- just after high school. A sudden blockage of the arteries, the condition is grave, and highly unlikely for such a young person. “I was only 18 years old, and had zero cause for blood clots, so they kept me in the ICU for two weeks. This rattled my plan significantly,” Payne told a publication.Payne was forced to focus on her health, as life continued around her. Thankfully, she recovered fully, and soon began having children. Motherhood quickly became a full time job, and further delayed her education. Payne and her husband, Joseph, focused on growing their party rental business, and on raising their children.She even began working as a doula and a birth assistant before earning an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse degree in Midwifery.However, in 2019, 10 years and 7 children later, she felt well enough to return to school, and enrolled at Keiser University. However, tragedy would strike again when she lost her mother. She referred to her mother as her "greatest cheerleader," and struggled to continue her studies through the grief. However, Payne told a local publication that words from her daughter written on a sticky note ultimately kept her going:"Aim for the moon, and if you miss, you may hit a star.""She sent me to school with a Post-It note in her tiny handwriting,” Payne said via a press release from the university. “If she can realize the vast opportunities this world has to offer, so can you,” she told the audience at her commencement speech. How Family Support Helped a Woman Graduate CollegeThe support of her growing family carried her through difficult times and encouraged her to continue her studies, even as she became pregnant with two more children during the course of her education. As she took the stage at her graduation from Keiser University, she did so as valedictorian, addressing the crowd with powerful words of encouragement. Not coincidentally, she was also the valedictorian of her high school class, over a decade prior! In her university commencement speech, she referenced the note her daughter wrote, and how much the support of her family truly helped her. She graduated as a registered nurse with a Bachelor's degree in Science and Nursing, and intends to continue her studies and obtain a Master of Science degree in Nurse-Midwifery at Bethel University in St. Paul, Minnesota.Her story is inspirational in the truest sense of the word. Despite facing seemingly insurmountable hurdles, Payne persevered. Not only did she make it through her degree, but she did so at the top of her class. Keiser University Chancellor Arthur Keiser, PhD, even beamed to a local publication: “We are incredibly proud of Ashley for being named valedictorian of her graduating class with a perfect 4.0 GPA.”How One Woman Proved the Importance of PerseverancePhoto by Goutinho De Flávio GFHer story is ultimately one of support. Whether from family or friends, encouragement from others is invaluable. The belief of those close to us can inject us with a newfound drive, confidence, and enthusiasm. Though motherhood made Ashley's studies all the more taxing, it is also what ultimately propelled her to keep going when it seemed too daunting. Her daughter, Lorelai, had no idea how powerful that one note would become. She recalled, "I can't believe the impact it has even now; I'm getting interviewed about this. I didn't know that that's what I'd be doing when I wrote this at 9 years old."We are all capable of encouraging those in our life in the way Lorelai did, and it is paramount that we do so when given the opportunity. Ashley's story is one of determination, perseverance, and familial support. As she continues on her journey towards obtaining her Master of Science degree, her story continues to inspire and motivate us all to pursue our goals relentlessly, and support those close to us doing the same. More from Goalcast:Inspired by Her Son’s Dying Wish, Woman Graduates From College in His Place With the Highest RankWoman Gives Birth to Baby Boy – Less Than 24 Hours Later, She Rushes to Graduate College With a PhD56-Year-Old Grandfather Always Dreamed of Playing College Baseball — His Dream Just Came True

No One Pays Attention to Defeated Author at His Own Book Launch - Little Did He Know a Stranger Was About to Change His Life Overnight
Uplifting News

No One Pays Attention to Defeated Author at His Own Book Launch - Little Did He Know a Stranger Was About to Change His Life Overnight

Popular social media platform TikTok isn't all dances and comedy skits. As we have documented here before, audiences on TikTok are capable of rallying together in impactful and positive ways to change the lives of others. One such story involves an obscure author, Shawn Warner. When video of Warner at a book launch was shared to TikTok, he had no idea what would follow, and how his life would change. A random passerby thought that Warner looked defeated at the book signing, where many were walking past the budding author, paying him little attention. Why an Author Looked “Defeated” at His Book LaunchIn a video, shared above, Warner sits behind a small table, with copies of his most recent book spread out in front of him. The TikTok user who engaged with Shawn wrote, "I was just shopping when I noticed this man trying to promote his new book. I honestly don't even read books nowadays. But something just told me to get a couple." He also noticed that the author seemed "defeated" and knew he could use a little encouragement. He told Warner that he makes TikTok videos, and that he would buy the book and share it to his page. “OK, I won’t say no,” Warner laughed, not thinking much of the exchange. However the video soon blew up. After accumulating more than 5 million views, Warner's book was catapulted to success, entering the bestseller list on Amazon. The video marks a long path for the budding author, who has had a love for writing almost his whole life. He wrote his first adventure story when he was just four years old. However, once his two children entered university, he decided to dedicate his attention to writing full-time. He published his first complete novel, Leigh Howard and the Ghosts of Simmons-Pierce Manor, in November last year. “It’s about a teenage girl who teams up with a ghost with multiple personalities to solve the mystery of her parents murder,” he explained.Just six months after publishing the book, it became a huge success thanks to the help of users on TikTok, who rallied behind Warner. He was justifiably in shock. “The love and the kindness on the video is totally unexpected,” he responded in his own TikTok video. "You'd think as a writer I'd have words for it, but I don't," he added.“I’m in shock. I don’t even know what to say about it at the moment. I’m trying to wrap my head around it.”How One Man Proved the Importance of PerseveranceEmbracing the platform, he now posts to an account titled "shawnwwrites" where he promotes his work and engages with his newfound audience. He admits that there was a "lull in sales" before the video, and that the reaction to the initial TikTok changed the entire trajectory of his career. More important than financial success, however, has been the encouragement and support he feels from strangers all over the globe. Warner admitted that, growing up, people had always told him he could never make money from writing -- and he unfortunately believed them. Now, he is proving them all wrong and doing what he loves. Sadly, this story is all too common -- one of children with big dreams being discouraged. For anyone, a little support goes a long way, and at some point we all need to be told to pursue our passions, and that it really is possible to do what we love. It is remarkable to think about how many people like Shawn are out there pursuing their own dreams, whatever they may be, and how serendipitously success can find us. Platforms like TikTok, and the internet as a whole, enable a newfound scale of discoverability -- and showcase stories like this to unfold for all to see. While not everyone goes viral on the platform and becomes an overnight success, the abundance of stories such as this one can still encourage those watching to persevere. The outpouring of support has no doubt confirmed to Shawn that he is on the right path, and might encourage another young dreamer somewhere in the world to pursue their own passion. The importance of this type of encouragement cannot be understated, and truly has a ripple effect. Let Shawn Warner, and his perseverance, be a reminder to us all of how important it is to believe in both ourselves and in others. More from Goalcast:Young Woman Who Can’t Afford University Decides to Go to Community College Instead – Then She Opens a Letter That Changes EverythingJudge Calls Single Mom “Irresponsible” for Her 14 Parking Tickets – Then She Made a Plea That Changed His MindMom Disappears From Her 6-Year-Old Daughter’s Life – Then, One Unexpected Call Changes Everything

Man Leaves Valuable Possession in the Bathroom by Mistake - Then, an 8-Year-Old Saves the Day
Uplifting News

Man Leaves Valuable Possession in the Bathroom by Mistake - Then, an 8-Year-Old Saves the Day

Every now and then we come across stories that remind us of our collective capacity for kindness.This is one such story, of a young boy and his family who came across a highly desirable piece of sports memorabilia, and ended up returning it to its rightful owner. Unfortunately, many might have behaved differently in this situation, but this family reminds us that kindness and compassion still exist, and how important these qualities are. How One Man Lost His Prized PossessionWhen the Houston Astros won the World Series in 2022, the organization gave all employees at Minute Maid Park custom championship rings. Typically, championship players are gifted flashy rings, but the Astros decided to recognize the underbelly of the organization that often goes overlooked, but are just as deserving of celebration. One of these employees, Reynaldo Muñoz, had been working at the stadium for 23 years, and cherished his ring as a symbol of the team's success as well as his sustained commitment to the organization. However, when working on Father's Day this past year, he misplaced this prized possession. Muñoz took off the custom ring while washing his hands in a restroom, when he got a call for assistance elsewhere in the stadium. It wasn't until about 20 minutes later that he realized he didn't have the ring on, and when he went back to look, it was gone. The stadium can hold a staggering 41,000 people, and on Father's Day the place was packed. Not only that, but packed with Houston Astro's fans who might consider it their lucky day to happen upon a coveted championship ring. Aside from the item's rarity, it is also adorned with jewels, making it particularly valuable. Devastated, Muñoz considered the ring lost. Unbeknownst to him, however, he would soon be reunited with his ring thanks to 8-year old Neymar Davalos who was attending his first ever Astro's game.Neymar found the ring in the bathroom, and, adorably, gifted it to his father for Father's Day. "He comes back from the restroom and he's like, 'Dad, here's your Father's Day gift,'" the boy's father told a local publication.The pair didn't think much of it after that, assuming it was merely a replica.The next morning, however, they realized what had happened. A friend of Muñoz's daughter had shared a post to Facebook about the lost ring, hoping to see it return to its owner. How One Little Boy Proved the Importance of IntegrityThe post was shared rapidly and quickly went viral. In the post, Janie Arredondo writes "[Muñoz] has worked for 23 years at MMP and this ring meant so much to him. The ring is very unique as it is personalized to every employee. We hope whoever has it will return it. It is one of his joys from working there for many years." When Neymar and his father saw the post, they knew they had to do the right thing. They quickly reached out, revealing they had the ring, and set up a time to meet up and return it. The meeting was captured by a local news crew, seen below. Muñoz is clearly relieved to see his ring again, and impressed by the generosity of these strangers who could have acted very differently. "I really didn't think I was going to see [the ring] ever again, but I'm so glad they did the right thing," Muñoz said. "At the end of the day, it's the best thing you can ask for."To express his gratitude, Muñoz gave the young boy a bag filled with T-shirts, bobbleheads, a voucher for game tickets. He also included some replica rings that the 8-year-old fan can keep for himself this time. The Davalos family clearly has a strong moral compass, and are setting a positive example for their son as well as people everywhere who saw the story. One user responded to the footage of the trio saying "Just when you think all hope is lost... This father and son restore my faith in humanity." Though anonymous, this Twitter user speaks for us all. More from Goalcast:11-Year-Old Returns Lost Wallet to Owners Despite Being Poor – Little Did He Know What Was Coming NextTaxi Driver Goes Back to Passenger’s Home and Returns $731 She Forgot in His Cab – Her and Her Family Can’t Hold Back Tears

Former Addict Stands at a Street Corner and Talks to the School Children Passing By - Spreading His New Addiction
Uplifting News

Former Addict Stands at a Street Corner and Talks to the School Children Passing By - Spreading His New Addiction

Often the simplest actions go the furthest. While an action as basic as a high five may seem inconsequential, with the right intentions the result can be extremely empowering. One New Yorker is proving this daily, by giving out high fives to local students -- every single day. What One Determined Man Does Each MorningPhoto by fauxelsEvery weekday, Eddie Pabon stands on the corner of 56th Street and Hudson Avenue to wish passing students a great day on their way to school. He refers to the ritual as a “high-five for a beautiful school day,” and told a local publication he has been doing it for a year.As students pass him on their way to school, he greets them with a smile, a wave of positivity, and a high five. He continued, “I strongly believe when you do this… you put your positive energy into them, you give them that boost." Take this energy with you into the school, make it through your school day. Bada bing, bada boom.”Eddie knows how important this simple act is, as he has overcome some significant struggles in his own life. In the past, Eddie has struggled with addiction, and even spent time in prison. “Fentanyl. Heroin. I had no willpower,” he said. “I had hopes out the window. I thought I was going to die an active addict.” Despite these depths, and the hopelessness he felt, Eddie never let his past define him. In fact, he did just the opposite.He sees the positivity he now spreads as redemptive, and a powerful way to combat the negativity that once consumed him. “As much as in my dark I took, now I’m giving back,” he said.His new addiction, he said, is putting smiles on peoples' faces -- and he certainly is doing just that. “I’ve had two teachers come up and tell me like, ‘I love what you do. When I see my students, they’re literally still full of energy since they saw you,'” Eddie added. Comments like these only confirm that Eddie is doing the right thing, and encourage him to keep going. How One Man Is Winning Hearts With His New “Addiction”Though we often get lost in our own internal worlds, sometimes all it takes is a simple act of positivity to snap us out and give us a boost. People like Eddie are unfortunately rare, but we can all learn from the example he sets. Simple acts like a high five can spread positivity that is infectious, and have exponential benefits. Even just spreading the same warmth and positivity to a stranger with a smile can achieve the same effect. Eddie has become a staple in his own community, and for good reason. Now, students look forward to crossing paths with Eddie, using his grin and charisma to boost them through a school day. By setting a positive example, he is also showing younger adults in his community how to spread good energy effectively -- leading by example. In a society that often seems self-obsessed, figures like Eddie can be powerful reminders of how important it truly is to uplift those around us. More from Goalcast:10-Year-Old Girl With Autism Bullied At School — Turns Out Her IQ Is Higher Than Einstein’sStudent Refuses to Take His Hat off in School — What the Principal Does Next Goes ViralPeople Think School Police Officer Is “Drunk” After Watching Him – But That Couldn’t Be Further From the Truth

10-Year-Old Sells Lemonade to Help Her Mom Buy Clothes for the Family - Now, She Has Taken Her Business to New Heights
Uplifting News

10-Year-Old Sells Lemonade to Help Her Mom Buy Clothes for the Family - Now, She Has Taken Her Business to New Heights

Running a lemonade stand seems almost a rite of passage for kids everywhere. Many share the common memory of setting one up in the summer, hand making a sign, and hoping to make a few extra dollars. The process instills a sense of responsibility, independence, and early financial acumen. For many, it might be just a fun summer activity, or way to interact with the community. However, one young girl in Fort Wayne, Indiana took her lemonade stand to new heights. The Business Venture a 10-Year-Old Girl Has StartedUnsplash/ John Angel10-year-old Naivy Bloxson and her two siblings started their stand like many other children to help their mother buy school supplies and clothes for the family. However theirs has continued for six years, turning into a small enterprise! Their mother, Danielle Bloxson, says it’s even grown so much that the kids have extra money to buy things like hoverboards and scooters to ride around.However, the venture is not solely driven by profit. Speaking on the various benefits of the stand, Naivy's mother told a local publication: “It’s so awesome. I work in a school, so I know how important those things are: learning, counting money, interacting with people you know all of those things are such great assets to have when they get older.”The success of their stand is no stroke of luck, though. Naivy is a shrewd marketer, and has even taken to using the hashtag #BestLemonadeinthe08 to promote her budding business on social media, for example. A cup of lemonade at her stand is priced reasonably at 50 cents, and a gallon is available for $5. They even have a variety of flavors, including raspberry and cherry pomegranate lemonade -- as well as a strong selection of snacks to choose from.Why a Little Girl Loves Her Lemonade StandThe stand has become a fixture in the community, and the local police department is even a loyal patron. Many of her customers are regulars now, and have grown familiar with both the business, and it's charming young executive. “It’s really good because I get to meet a lot of new people every day. So it gives me more confidence in doing the lemonade stand,” Naivy told another publication. She also added that she’s picking up valuable skills from running the stand, “like learning how to count money better and learning how it would be like to have my own business when I’m older.”For the young entrepreneur, the stand is clearly more than just an avenue to buy more hoverboards and scooters. Meeting new people and engaging with customers enhances her confidence, laying a strong foundation for future endeavors. In fact, though her mother originally purchased the stand, she has since been paid back entirely -- making young Naivy a bonafide business owner. How One Little Girl Proves the Importance of CommitmentUnsplash/ Rod LongEntrepreneurs of all ages can learn from Naivy's ambition. While her journey certainly sets a strong example for children everywhere, even older entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from her attitude and resolve. Naivy likely had to weather slow phases of the business, engaging in trial and error with elements such as marketing and pricing. While many are quick to celebrate success stories such as this one, what often gets overlooked is the persistence to stick with a plan even when it seems futile. So, let Naivy's story be a reminder to those of all ages: success is not solely measured by immediate results but by the unwavering commitment to one's dreams and resilience. Through persistence, adaptability, and an unyielding belief in our vision, we too can overcome obstacles and forge a path to success in any field. Naivy's journey serves as a timeless example that no matter age or circumstance, our goals are always within reach if we have the courage to persist. Time will tell where Naivy's path leads her, but it will certainly benefit from her early business experience. More from Goalcast:An 8-Year-Old’s Dad Tragically Took His Own Life – So She Starts a Lemonade Stand to Prevent More Kids From Losing Their ParentsStranger Approaches Kids at Their Deserted Lemonade Stand – Their Mom Secretly Films the Interaction

People Think School Police Officer Is Drunk After Watching Him - But That Couldnt Be Further From the Truth
Uplifting News

People Think School Police Officer Is Drunk After Watching Him - But That Couldnt Be Further From the Truth

"Not many people have the opportunity or are aware of the power they have to make someone happy.”These are the words of police officer Arthur Parker, who goes above and beyond his duties at Clark High School in Plano, Texas to spread positivity as much as he can.The 57-year-old has worked as a school resource officer for 27 years, tasked with keeping a watchful eye over the entire student body and faculty. In actuality, he does far more than that. The "Drunk" Police OfficerPhoto by Mathias RedingAs a traffic director, Parker often dons wigs or props, and even dances along to the flow of traffic. For those that aren't familiar with him, his antics have at times raised a few eyebrows. He is often so animated at his job that some onlookers have thought he was drunk!“I had a patrol call and say someone called and said there’s an officer drunk in the street. They got a real call,” Parker told a local news outlet. Even the school principal admitted to some initial skepticism. “My first impression was ‘oh my gosh, this is gonna be the person that’s gonna be protecting us’ because he did his normal goofy thing and went into some kind of character..."adding that "he’s kept me laughing ever since.” For those that do know him, his behavior is nothing new. “He makes them laugh,” said Janice Williams, the high school’s principal.For almost three decades, Parker has been a constant friendly face in the community at Clark High School. In this role, he wears many hats -- literally and figuratively.At times, he can be a comedian, lifting the spirits of those he passes by. Other times, he can be stern, encouraging students to get to class when they're running behind. As a traffic director, he is closer to a performer, jumping around as he waves cars on -- all while keeping everyone safe. He even brings a harmonica to the school at times to play students on in the halls. At all times, though, he instills a positive outlook in those who look up to him. To the teenage students, he is a beacon of confidence, showing them that positivity is a mindset, and a contagious one at that. He is affectionally known as "OP" and one student -- Sapida Abbasi -- told a news outlet "OP, he really tries to find that connection. He’s mostly just taught me how to be confident no matter what.”Another student reiterated: “When it’s fun, he’s always fun. When things get real, he’s strict.” How One Man Had a Profound Impact on His Community Students at Clark High School were so touched by Officer Parker's commitment to their school, that they decided to show their appreciation in a big way. They planned a secret pep rally to surprise OP, deciding he should also be the recipient of the same joy he constantly extends to them. So they did just that, complete with dance routines, musical numbers, and silly costumes. The entire school showed out for the rally, surprising Officer Parker in the school gymnasium. Students and teachers alike roared with appreciation, even participating in a large choreographed dance in the style of his traffic directing. It wasn't difficult for them to find the energy -- all they had to do was mirror what OP had poured into their community for over 30 years. Ever humble, he added, "I feel like I have so much to give and I'm still not giving enough."Officer Arthur Parker's journey at Clark High School is a testament to the profound impact that one person can have on a community. His unwavering dedication and infectious spirit lift up everyone he crosses paths with, and the student body's response underscores just how contagious that energy can be. All communities need an Officer Parker. More from Goalcast:Police Officer Passes by Struggling Homeless Woman on the Street – The Message on Her Shirt Makes Him Pull OverPolice Officer of 19 Years Dances on the Street – And His Reason Why Has People Laughing

Owner Asks Homeless Man to Leave the Premises but He Keeps Coming Back - Finally, He Decides to Take a Different Approach
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Owner Asks Homeless Man to Leave the Premises but He Keeps Coming Back - Finally, He Decides to Take a Different Approach

What would your reaction be to finding a homeless man sleeping behind your business?Unfortunately, many of us have a default reaction of skepticism or disregard to those we do not immediately understand. It is often too easy to judge others based on appearance, but one gym owner reminds us why an open mind is so important, and just how far a little compassion can carry others. What One Man Did When He Saw a Homeless Man Asleep in His CarPhoto by Timur WeberA few months ago, at the God Body gym in Memphis, Tennessee, owner Roderick Duncan noticed someone sleeping in one of his old cars behind the building. "Homeless guy, had to have been," Duncan told a publication. Duncan initially approached the car with his cell phone camera out and ready to record the encounter, telling the stranger gruffly to get out of the vehicle. He thought that was the end of the story, until the next day when he noticed the same individual, in the same spot. He again asked the stranger to leave, and he did. This continued night after night, developing into a routine for the two -- Duncan asking the man to leave his property night after night -- until he decided to try a different approach. One night he had a change of heart. "Before I could knock on the [car] window, I said, 'You know what?' I came back in here and made him a cup of coffee," Duncan recalled.What he brought to the young man was far more than a cup of coffee, but a change in mindset. Duncan approached the individual with understanding and compassion this time, and watched as he turned from a nameless 'homeless man' into a young individual with a story as unique as anybody else's -- and just as deserving of kindness. How One Cup of Coffee Led to a Beautiful FriendshipPhoto by Esranur KalayThe two shared a cup of coffee that one evening, and a relationship began to blossom. Duncan learned that the stranger was 24-year-old Bryan Taylor. He learned about Bryan's troubled childhood and struggles with alcohol, and more about his desire to change his circumstances. Their relationship grew over conversations, and soon, Duncan was taking Bryan to get a new ID, new clothes, and driving him to job interviews. Bryan even went from crashing in old cars behind the gym to a couch in Duncan's home. "Some people need more than one chance. It takes a while for most kids to stop bumping their head," Duncan admitted. However, Bryan's growth wasn't so simple. The duo have both admitted that their relationship came with its own turbulence, and required patience from both parties. For example, Duncan set rules for the young man, and tried to help guide him back on the right path, but there were setbacks at times. Trust was violated, and regained -- built back stronger. It turns out, that single cup of coffee, and change of mindset, paved the way for both men's lives to change. How a Man Proved the Importance of Giving Others a Second Chance For Bryan, the stability provided allowed him to begin taking steps in the right direction. With the trust of a mentor, and the confidence he instilled, he was able to search for jobs with a new fervor, and lean on someone for support in the process. “I’m a changed person,” said Bryan. “I got a job. I got more confidence. I got a smile on my face.” As a gym owner and personal trainer, Duncan is used to helping people work towards their goals. However, his encounter with Bryan forced him to reassess his judgement, and shift his perspective in a positive direction. What Duncan truly provided for the young man was belief. He instilled confidence in the young man, who still has a long life ahead of him. By reassessing his own implicit biases, and changing them, he had the ability to recognize that Bryan was not a threat, but just someone in need of some help -- as we all are at some point. The relationship these two developed can remind us all to keep an open mind, and always lend a helping hand when we have the power to do so. More from Goalcast:Homeless Woman Begs For Scraps In Restaurant — Customer Gives Her Leftovers Then Does Even MoreHomeless Dad Living in His Car With 2 Kids Is Fired From His Job – Then, Strangers Step in When They Hear His RequestWoman Buys Homeless Man Coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts — He Then Hands Her a Shocking Note

School Custodian Notices 8-Year-Old Boy Choking on a Bagel - Immediately Jumps in to Save His Life During Lunch
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School Custodian Notices 8-Year-Old Boy Choking on a Bagel - Immediately Jumps in to Save His Life During Lunch

Heroes are often found in the most unexpected places, and their selfless actions can change lives forever. At Mead Elementary School in Colorado, an ordinary day took a terrifying turn when 8-year-old Luc Dowen found himself choking on a bagel during lunch. In this critical moment, it was the school custodian, Jeff Fleiger, who stepped forward as an unsung hero. Through his quick thinking, training, and composure, Fleiger's intervention saved Luc's life, reminding us that heroes are often those we least expect.How One Little Boy’s Day Turned Into a Alarming SituationPhoto by Anastasia ShuraevaIn an instant, Luc Dowen's ordinary day transformed into a life-or-death situation when he began choking on a bagel. Panicked, Luc desperately sought help, tapping on the nearest adult's shoulder. That adult happened to be Jeff Fleiger, the school custodian. "All I could hear in my minds is ... 'Get an adult, get an adult,'" Luc told a local publication. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Fleiger knew he had to act swiftly.Fleiger sprang into action, performing the Heimlich maneuver on Luc. Though he had been trained in the procedure over a decade earlier, his training came in handy. Finally, after a few attempts, success — Luc's airway cleared, allowing him to breathe freely again. Fleiger then promptly escorted Luc to the school nurse, who ensured he received further care and support.The gravity of the situation didn't fully sink in for Luc until the following day when he approached Fleiger with heartfelt gratitude, offering him a hug. In that tender moment, Luc conveyed the depth of his appreciation, understanding that Fleiger's swift response and life-saving actions had potentially saved him from a tragic fate. Fleiger, ever humble, was profoundly moved by this gesture, recognizing the impact his intervention had on Luc's life.Fleiger's heroic actions were not only a result of his training but also his ability to remain composed in a moment of crisis. Although he had learned the Heimlich maneuver years ago, he had never encountered a situation where it was necessary— until that fateful day. How One School Custodian’s Quick-Thinking Saved a LifeFleiger's quick-thinking and calm demeanor allowed him to put his training into action, ultimately saving Luc's life. His selflessness and preparedness serve as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of being ready to act in the face of emergencies, and having the bravery to do so.While this extraordinary incident at Mead Elementary School emphasizes the significance of first aid training, it also inspires the bravery to act on it. Luc's life was forever altered by Fleiger's heroic intervention, reminding us that heroes can be found in the most unassuming places, and are often made in dire circumstances.In the halls of Mead Elementary School, an unassuming custodian named Jeff Fleiger proved that heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Through his preparedness, composure, and selfless actions, he saved the life of a choking student, reminding us all of the extraordinary impact we can all have. Though he had the right preparation, without his bravery to act quickly, things could have turned out quite differently. This hero's actions can inspire all of us to rise up in moments when we are needed.More from Goalcast:School Janitor Takes Boy With Autism Under His Wing – So His Mom Raises $35,000 in ResponseImmigrant Janitor Graduates From Nursing School – And Works at the Same Hospital He Used to CleanAfter a Stint in the School Cafeteria, This Ex-Janitor Now Owns and Operates His Own Restaurant