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Liam Neeson Left His Son After Losing Wife Natasha Richardson
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Liam Neeson Left His Son After Losing Wife Natasha Richardson

Following the tragic loss of his wife Natasha Richardson, Liam Neeson found solace in work, immersing himself in acting to cope with profound grief. Despite prioritizing family, he struggled to be present for his son during this tumultuous period. However, an opportunity arose to reconcile when Neeson reached out to his son, Michael Richardson, offering him a role in "Made In Italy," ultimately bringing them closer together and facilitating healing.

15-Year-Old Feels a Spark With Her Sisters Prom Date - 70 Years Later the Unthinkable Happens
Uplifting News

15-Year-Old Feels a Spark With Her Sisters Prom Date - 70 Years Later the Unthinkable Happens

Shirley Peasley is the woman who believed her sister would never forgive her, after a simple prom night went shockingly wrong.Way back in the 1950s, Shirley Peasley's younger sister Kay was getting ready for the night of her life. She had scored a date with her high school's heartthrob, Harold, and he was taking her to the prom! Peasley couldn't have been more excited for her sister and she helped her primp up for her date, but then, the door bell rang too soon.She Said Her Sister "Should Have Been Ready"Patrick Q/FlickrPeasley quickly rushed downstairs to stall her sister's date, but fate had other plans. In a delightful rom-com twist, Shirley and Harold couldn't stop bantering back and forth. Their spark was undeniable. By the time Kay came downstairs, Shirley pulled her aside and confessed she felt a magnetic connection with Harold. She didn't want to play games or try to go behind her beloved sister's back, so she addressed her feelings about him head on. She asked for her permission to "steal" her date.Even though it was early days for Shirley and Harold (less than a few hours), without hesitating, her younger sister Kay sweetly acquiesced to her sister's wishes, opting out of their date — she didn't want to go out with a boy who had eyes for another girl — especially if that girl was her older sister.“She should have been ready when he showed up. She was taking too long getting ready!”Shirley Peasley, PEOPLELooking back, Shirley Peasley playfully poked fun at the situation. WHILE she had never intended to to steal her sister's date — she couldn't deny that Harold had charisma. “I thought he was handsome and I knew he was popular in school with sports and everything,” Shirley explained. “So of course I wanted to date him."With a mischievous grin and unapologetic charm, Shirley recounted how her bold move paved the way for a lifetime of love and laughter with Harold — oh, and did we forget to mention?The couple just celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary!Their 70 Year Secret RevealedCOURTESY SHIRLEY AND HAROLD PEASLEYHarold and Shirley Peasley may have fallen in love in an "unconventional" way, but 70 years later, their fire is still burning and it may just prove the best way to fall in love, is your own way.“He waits on me hand and foot. If I tell him I’m gonna go get the clothes out of the dryer, he’s out there and got them out before I can do it. He takes good care of me.”Shirley Peasley, PEOPLETheir secret to staying in love? It's simple; according to Harold, they "do everything together," finding joy in each moment shared. Despite the passing years, their bond remains as strong as ever, a testament to the power of love and companionship. As they celebrate their remarkable 70th wedding anniversary, Harold and Shirley serve as a shining example of love's ability to endure and flourish, no matter the odds.They Didn’t Even Tell Their Kids How They Met!No one gives Shirley and Harold a tough time about how they met — after all, they were only 15 years old at the time of the "crime."In fact, the couple were so in love, they wed just three short years later as soon as Shirley was of age. Now, Harold and Shirley Peasley share children, Mike, 69, John, 62, Kim, 58, Kris, 55, and their “unofficial” adopted son, Greg Rushton, 60, who grew up near the Peasleys. But their five kids never knew exactly how it all went down — until a surprising revelation on a family cruise vacation about 20 years ago, during their 50th wedding anniversary celebration. During a "Love and Marriage" event hosted onboard the ship, the couple was selected to participate in the game where their endearing love story took center stage. The host asked Shirley and Harold exactly how they met — which is when they revealed the entire story without mincing any details! The host went on to make the questions even spicier when he asked the couple what was the most unexpected place they had ever made love. That's when their grandchildren hilariously piped up exclaiming, "We do not need to know that!"Their Spark Lights Up Every Room They’re InUnlike lots of couples who marry "too young," these long time love birds couldn't have gotten married soon enough. Over 73 years together and the couple still feels like they're living in a fairytale...and the trickle down effect is no joke.“Growing up, my life was like a fairytale,” daughter Kris Flanders tells PEOPLE. “We were camping, we were boating. They were just amazing parents. I hang out with my parents now because they are so much fun.”Love really is infectious. The Peasleys still keep it playful after all the years and it's the most important reminder that while love is patient and love is kind — it also can be fun too. Even in their late 80's, Shirley and Harold Peasley still bring out the 15-year-old spirit in one another, and it's beautiful.Love Is More Than Just Grand GesturesIn the end, it's not just about the stolen moments or the grand celebrations — it's about the everyday gestures, the quiet conversations, and the unwavering support that define their love story. Harold and Shirley Peasley remind us that love knows no bounds and that, sometimes, it's the unexpected twists that lead to the greatest love stories of all.Perhaps the real secret is looking at everyday as a new adventure with the one you love — whether you're sailing the seven seas or just picking up a salmon filet from your local supermarket!More from Goalcast:Teen’s Struggling Dad Works Hard to Make Ends Meet – So She Takes a 25-Mile Detour to Do This Before PromMan Makes a Promise to 11-Year-Old Neighbor – Keeps It Going For Over 20 Years for This Special ReasonTeen Refuses to Go to Prom With Her Classmate in Front of 2000 People – Crushed, He Comes Up With a New Plan

They've Been Divorced for 27 Years, but When His Ex-wife Got Sick, He Was the First to Step Up
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They've Been Divorced for 27 Years, but When His Ex-wife Got Sick, He Was the First to Step Up

When couples get divorced, most exes shut the door, lock it, and throw away the key. It's not just the end of a chapter, it's the end of the whole dang book.But for Megan Tai's parents, divorce, as it turns out, wasn't the end of their story.Nearly THREE DECADES later, her dad walked back into her mom's life after she was diagnosed with Stage 4 endometrial cancer. He didn't just show up. He stayed; honoring old love, loyalty, and vows at a time when she needed it the most. A Cancer Diagnosis Brings Love Back AroundMegan's parents met more than 30 years ago in California. Her father, originally from Hawaii, was stationed there during his time in the military.They fell in love and had two children, Megan and her older brother. Shortly after Megan's birth, the couple separated. Her dad returned to Hawaii and her mom became a single parent, raising the kids on her elementary school teacher salary.For more than 20 years, they lived completely separate lives. And then came a devastating cancer diagnosis."Fast forward 20+ years later to my mother's diagnosis - my father was one of the first people by her side when she was released from the hospital."Megan Tai via GoFundMeMegan, who works full-time in domestic violence services and is also a graduate student studying Marriage and Family Therapy, moved back in with her mom to help.Overwhelmed with trying to take care of her mom alongside keeping up with her work AND school, Megan was struggling.So, her dad stepped up. In an incredible act of love, he left his life in Hawaii, hopped a flight back to California and moved in. TikTok Video Goes ViralIn a gutwrenching TikTok clip, Megan shares snippets of her parents battling cancer...together.It may only be 20-seconds long, but boy, it packs a punch. She captions it: "POV: Ur parents have been divorced for 20+ years and ur dad's still the first one there when your mom gets diagnosed w Stage 4 cancer."In the video, Megan's dad lovingly helps his ex with her exercises, spots her going up the stairs, and keeps her company, reading with her and playing video games. Take a look:According to Megan's GoFundMe, this is the first time in her 27 years that she's seen her parents live together under one roof. "He did everything - helped her exercise (even when she felt like she couldn't), cooked her meals, took her out on drives, picked up her medications, and so much more," Megan writes. "They talked for hours. They bickered like they were still married. They laughed.""They helped me see them as they were when they were younger."Megan TaiAnd in doing so, not only did they work on healing her mom, but it also helped to heal a lot of childhood trauma for their daughter.Reaction to the VideoSo far, the video has garnered a staggering 8.1 MILLION views in just one week. Because...LOVE. And while they may not be IN love with each other, it's clear that despite everything, love remains.And it turns out, these exes aren't the only ones to honor a life and love they once shared. A number of people came forth to share their own stories. "My parents divorced 30 years ago and when my mom was on her death bed, my dad came to visit her often with goodies and they told each other they loved each other," wrote Hi_Dee Aye.MVP10210 commented, "My father held her hand when she passed. They were so close. Divorced 25 yrs by that point. Never saw my father cry ever until that woman died.""Parents divorced 20+ years too. Dad was hospitalized 2 weeks, my mom insisted he come stay with her after he was released so he wasn’t alone during recovery. It really is beautiful," said Lon."I took care of my ex-husband during hospice. I loved the life and children he gave me. I owed it to him," shared Brenda Carmichael Da.Enduring Bond of FamilySometimes people just don't fit as a couple and marriages end. But as Megan's parents prove, that doesn't mean that the love just ends with it. No matter how their marriage ended, at some point in their lives, Megan's parents obviously loved each other very much — and that love still counts for something. Even 20-plus years later.As one commenter so aptly put it, "Love has so many forms. This one is pretty freaking great."And it's a powerful testament to the enduring nature of love and the lasting impact it can have.Ultimately, Megan's parents' story serves as a poignant reminder that while marriages may end, the unbreakable bond of family always remains.More from Goalcast:Man Takes Care of the Bills for 4 Decades – After He Passes Away, His Wife Makes an Incredible DiscoveryWoman Has a Dream About the Same Baby for Months – Fights to Adopt Her Husband’s Dead Ex-wife’s SonTeen With Cancer Invites Taylor Swift to His Prom but She Rejects It – Then She Does This

Woman Visits Her Parents at Retirement Community - Decides to Move in at 32 Years Old
Uplifting News

Woman Visits Her Parents at Retirement Community - Decides to Move in at 32 Years Old

We often hear the benefits of a retirement community for older people, who enjoy the social aspects of those kinds of living situations. But a 32-year-old woman is reminding everyone that all people can benefit from the structure and support of community — no matter how old or young you are.An Unexpected MoveIn 2021, a woman named Liz White visited her parents at a retirement community in Naples, Florida. Her retired parents spent their winters there, and White liked the building and community so much that when an apartment freed up in the same building, she decided to move in.According to CNBC, the average age of people living in that building at the time was 55 years old. Liz was by far the youngest. That first year, the customer success manager paid roughly $2,000 in monthly rent for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment. Later, when her landlord put the unit up for rent, White’s parents decided to buy it.Apartments in the area can go for up to $1 million, but White didn’t contribute financially. Instead, she lives in the apartment and takes care of it. When her parents are in town, they also stay with her.The young woman's biggest takeaway after moving in was how much she learned to interact with people on a daily basis and how good it's been for her.“When you live somewhere where you’re not around people, you can keep to yourself, and now, I have to be ready because I might have a conversation at any time,” White explained to CNBC. “It was an adjustment at first but it’s become a joy of my life.”Facing Hard TimesWhite’s parents had only owned the apartment for about three months when Hurricane Ian flooded it. It was a devastating and stressful time for the family, who had to decide whether to sell the unit or completely remodel it.In the end, they decided they liked the community too much and wanted to reconstruct it. It was a hard path since they’d lost pretty much everything, and it took almost a year to finish the massive project.It was during that time, however, that White realized the true power of her community. She rented from another neighbor during the remodel and recalls someone telling her that she would laugh at the situation one day.“I felt like it was the worst part of my life forever, but at the end of the day, I got through it,” she told CNBC. “It’s been really good to have that sense of community and have people to grow you with different perspectives in life. It’s also made me more open to meeting new people and not sweating the small stuff,” she continued.“Life is hopefully going to be long and there’s a lot of phases to it. If you’re going through one hard phase, it’s not going to be forever.”There’s No Place Like HomeLiving in the community, White added how she’d made friends of all ages, including people her own age, and has experienced many great adventures as a result. It just goes to show you that community is what we make it, and we get what we put in.While certain retirement communities have age restrictions, White’s story also serves as a powerful reminder that home is what you make it. You don’t necessarily need a fancy big house or solo living to be successful. Multigenerational living is also a successful way of life, especially when you consider the collective power of all that wisdom you gain by living with others.After all, Liz herself said it best: “I don’t just have to be friends with people who have lived the same kind of life I’ve lived.”More from Goalcast:Time to Do the “Crazy Things”: 77-Year-Old Throws a Big Wedding and Marries HerselfThese 55-Year-Old (Plus) Women Have Their Own Cheerleading Group – Proving Age Is Just Another Number93-Year-Old Sneaks Out of Retirement Home and Hitches a Ride With Stranger – All for His Girlfriend

Her Daughter Excluded Her Best Friend for Being Too Fat - Shocked Mom Takes Matters Into Her Own Hands
Uplifting News

Her Daughter Excluded Her Best Friend for Being Too Fat - Shocked Mom Takes Matters Into Her Own Hands

When it comes to co-parenting, one of the hardest things to deal with is when two parents don't see eye-to-eye on right and wrong. What's even harder? When your child and your ex are on the same team and you're the enemy. One divorced mother's relationship with her daughter was strained after she decided to cancel her 18th birthday party at the last minute. Later, she went to the popular Reddit threat "AITA" (shorthand for: Am I The Asshole) to discover whether or not she was the parent in the wrong. The comments poured in. And they were shocking.She Rewarded Her Daughter Every Time She Lost a PoundOne 42-year-old mother thought she was doing the right thing when, at the request of her daughter Abby, she agreed to "bribe" her to lose weight."Abby embarked on her weight loss journey a year ago and we set up a milestone-reward system where I'd buy her a little gift every milestone she crossed."Mother, RedditShockingly, the reward system actually worked. Abby was well on track to have her "dream body." When the finish line was in sight, Abby asked her mother if they could change their deal. Instead of receiving several small "rewards" she asked if she could save the rewards and add them up to her birthday gift. Instead of having a huge birthday party, Abby wanted this instead.Her 18th birthday was 4 months away and Abby wanted an even more extravagant gift. She wanted a vacation that her mother would pay for, inviting two of her closest friends to join. Despite the deviation from the original plan of a huge party, the mother agreed, wanting to support Abby's wishes.Fast forward to just one week away from Abby's birthday vacation. Everything seemed to be smooth sailing, but this couldn't be further from the truth. When this mother received and unexpected phone call from Abby's best friend's mother — her jaw dropped to the floor.She Realized Her Own Daughter Called Her Best Friend “Too Fat for Pictures”When the bad news bombshell dropped, Abby's mother couldn't believe what she was hearing. She discovered Abby's closest friend, Betty, was uninvited to Abby's birthday party. The reason behind Betty's exclusion couldn't have been more evil. Abby deemed her best friend "too chubby to look good in pictures." “I calmly talked to Abby and reminded her how Betty would feel being left out for such a reason, and she went off with, 'I didn't work so hard for this vacation so my pictures will be ruined.'"Mother, RedditAbby's hurtful remark about her best friend's appearance cast a dark cloud over the vacation plans. It made her mother stop and think: Was rewarding weight loss sending the wrong message? It forced us to rethink how we motivate and support each other in our goals.She Punished Her Daughter — But Her Ex Husband RetaliatedIn the end, it all came down to a heart-to-heart chat. The mom felt strongly that Abby owed Betty an apology for her hurtful comments about her body. She reminded Abby how awful it feels to be put down, drawing from Abby's own experiences not long ago. The mom even laid down the ultimatum: apologize or risk canceling the vacation. While she understood Abby's newfound confidence, she made it clear that it shouldn't mean hurting others. But Abby wasn't having it. She stormed off to her dad for backup.Soon after, the mom got a call from her ex-husband, who was furious about her decision and didn't mince words. He hatefully reminded her that he was paying 10% extra in child support. He tried to use this as a tactic to manipulate her into rescheduling Abby's trip. Remarkably, this fierce mom held her ground, telling her ex that enabling Abby's hurtful behavior wasn't okay. After hanging up, she reached out to Abby again. This time, she emphasized that she wasn't forcing her to invite Betty, just asking for a simple apology for the unnecessary pain caused.Instead of Learning Her Lesson She Asked Her Best Friend to LieDespite the mother's plea for an apology, Abby's actions took a troubling turn. Ignoring her mother's request, Abby attempted to manipulate the situation by pressuring Betty to lie. She wanted Betty to tell her mother that she had fabricated being uninvited and instead claim that she canceled due to feeling unwell. Betty, however, stood her ground, refusing to participate in Abby's deceit. In response, Abby unleashed a barrage of hurtful texts and body-shaming insults towards Betty, a display of cruelty that left the mother shaken. Betty, in turn, shared the distressing screenshots of Abby's messages with the mother, prompting her to make the difficult decision to cancel the vacation altogether. "When Betty said no, she sent a ton of hateful texts and body-shaming insults I can't even write down. Betty sent me screenshots so I canceled the vacation."Mother, RedditDespite attempts by the ex to salvage the situation by rebooking the trip, the popular destination was already fully booked with a long waiting list. As a result, the girls' spots were quickly filled by others, leaving Abby to face the consequences of her actions.Reddit Agreed This Heartbroken Mom Did the Right ThingRedditMany angry Reddit users were quick to back up this mom and let her know she did the right thing. Yet, despite the overwhelming support for her decision, this mother couldn't help but be devastated. She felt like she had failed as a parent and now it was too late to raise her daughter better.Thankfully, one wise Reddit user reminded her of the silver lining."I had an older person tell me that when I was in my early 30's. She said I world regret allowing so much anger control my life and my decisions at this age, but I wouldn't get it until I, too, was old enough to look back and see it. She was so right! I'm in my mid-60's now and I'm so embarrassed about so many events in my younger years!LSAinPA/ RedditThen other users were quick to chime in wholeheartedly agreeing her hopeful words couldn't be more true. Many of them agreed that looking back on their teen years, they were ashamed of their ignorant actions.Part of being young is navigating through life's ups and downs, making mistakes, and discovering who you truly are along the way. It's about learning from those mistakes, growing from them, and finding hope in the journey towards becoming better versions of ourselves. With a mother who cares so much about her daughter being a better person, we can only imagine one day this young woman will look back and wish she did better.More from Goalcast:Body Builder Dad Shamed for “Forcing” His 4 Year-Old to Lift Weights — Then People Realized His Hidden LessonNews Anchor Was Body-Shamed by a Viewer – Fires Back With Epic On-Air TakedownStranger Body Shames 17-Year-Old Girl in Public – But She Refuses to Stay Silent About It

Christian Woman Unable to Have Baby Her Prayers Were Answered in the Most Surprising Way
Uplifting News

Christian Woman Unable to Have Baby Her Prayers Were Answered in the Most Surprising Way

When Jaclyn Fieberg and her husband Greg Fieberg tied the knot in 2018, they eagerly anticipated starting a family. Fieberg, an elementary school teacher, and Greg, a firefighter and sergeant in the Air National Guard, dreamed of the warmth and laughter of children filling their home after long days at work. However, their hopes were dashed when Jaclyn Fieberg received devastating diagnoses of endometriosis and a chromosomal condition, casting a shadow over their dreams of parenthood.As an elementary school teacher, Fieberg poured her heart into nurturing her students, but deep down, she yearned for a child of her own to love and cherish. Each day, as she watched her students laugh and learn, the ache in her heart grew stronger, a silent longing for the pitter-patter of little feet and the joy of holding her own baby close. As the years passed and hope seemed lost, each day served as a poignant reminder of the life she longed to have but feared may never come to fruition — the dream of holding her own child in her arms.They Hit "Every Single Roadblock"Jaclyn FiebergJaclyn Fieberg and her husband Greg embarked on their journey to parenthood filled with hope and anticipation. However, their path was fraught with challenges from the very beginning. Despite their unwavering determination, they faced countless obstacles, enduring seven rounds of IVF and three heartbreaking miscarriages. "Every single roadblock that I felt like we could hit, we were hitting."Yet each setback had a silver lining. These obstacles only helped their bond more as a couple, testing their resilience and resolve. However, in the midst of their struggles, Fieberg found hope in her sisters, McIntyre and Corritori. Their constant support and selfless acts of love played a crucial role in making Jaclyn's dreams of motherhood a reality. In the best plot twist ever, her family helped her start one.God “Blessed” Her in the Most Unexpected WayTODAY ShowWhen her doctor, Matthew Lederman of RMA of New York - Westchester, suggested the possibility of using an egg donor, her younger sister, Meredith McIntyre, immediately stepped forward. Led by love, McIntyre selflessly volunteered to donate her eggs, offering Fieberg a ray of hope in her darkest hour.“I don’t know how she went through the journey that she’s been through," McIntyre, a mother of twins, said. "It’s been years and it was so hard for her family to see her struggle. It was just blow after blow.”"I just knew it was something I had to do for her," McIntyre said. For the first time in a long time, Fieberg had a renewed hope — but it wouldn't last long. The family was devastated when they discovered their initial attempt was unsuccessful. McIntyre experienced complications and was not able to carry Fieberg's baby-to-be.That's when her sister Stephanie Corritori courageously volunteered to carry the baby. It was the sisterhood of the traveling womb!These three sisters joined forces, showing incredible determination and the strength of family bonds. With their unwavering support, Fieberg found herself blessed in a way she never imagined — surrounded by the love of her sisters and the joy of having a child with their help.Their Prayers Were Finally AnsweredJaclyn FiebergAs Fieberg and her sisters stood united in their unwavering support, their prayers were finally answered in the most miraculous of ways. After enduring countless trials and setbacks on their journey to parenthood, she received the long-awaited news that would change their lives forever.On Feb. 1, 2024 their baby girl, Emersyn Clare Fieberg was born. And she was perfect.A mother at last, Fieberg said of Emersyn, "She’s going to know her story, and she’s going to know how wanted she was, and that her aunts did the most selfless, incredible thing."She Listened to an Uplifting Playlist EverydayEvery day, Stephanie Corritori found inspiration in a meticulously curated playlist. These songs were a source of strength throughout their unique journey to parenthood. A month before Corritori underwent IVF, the playlist became a comforting companion during these unsure time. With each melody, Corritori found a renewed sense of hope and determination. One song, My Wish by Rascal Flatts, held a special significance, reflecting Fieberg's struggles and the heartfelt desire for a brighter future, not only for her but now for little Emersyn. This playlist, carefully crafted with love and intention, became a symbol of resilience and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.Corritori's playlist included a diverse selection of uplifting tunes, each carrying its own message of hope and perseverance. From Luke Bryan's Most People are Good, a reminder of the inherent goodness in the world, to the timeless classics like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey's When You Believe and I Will Always Love You, each song served as a beacon of light during their darkest days. Other songs included Elton John's I'm Still Standing and MercyMe's I Can Only Imagine — a powerful song which sparked dreams of a future filled with endless possibilities. As Corritori listened to these melodies day after day, she found herself filled with hope and determination. Each song became a prayer, a reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, miracles were possible. And when baby Emersyn finally arrived, these songs echoed the joy and gratitude that filled their hearts, a testament to the power of love, faith, and the unwavering support of family.“Blessings” Come in All Shapes and SizesThough Fieberg may not have been blessed with a baby in the traditional sense, she discovered a different kind of blessing in the form of her family. With unwavering love and support, her sisters, Meredith McIntyre and Stephanie Corritori, stepped forward to fulfill her dreams of motherhood. More from Goalcast:Woman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyWoman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyAngry Customer Throws a Drink at Pregnant McDonald’s Worker – But One Stranger Witnesses Everything

Man Takes Care of the Bills for 4 Decades - After He Passes Away, His Wife Makes an Incredible Discovery
Love Stories

Man Takes Care of the Bills for 4 Decades - After He Passes Away, His Wife Makes an Incredible Discovery

*Featured image contains photos by Mikhail NilovAs one incredible final act of love, one husband made certain that his wife was taken care of long after he was gone. And if this isn't the epitome of true love, I don't know what is.Husband's Legacy of LoveIn most marriages, household responsibilities tend to get divvied up between both partners. It's not uncommon for one person to take the lead in managing household bills and expenses.For forty-one years, X (formerly Twitter) user @AriThinks' father exclusively took care of all the household bills. In fact, he took such good care of them that his wife never had to pay a bill. Now, even in death, he's still doing it. In a tweet that's gone viral with over 5.2 MILLION views (because who doesn't want a love like this??) @AriThinks shares that her father passed away a few days ago.After he died, the family made an incredible discovery. Her father had paid off all the bills six months in advance so her mother could rest easy and take the time to grieve in peace. "My Dad passed a few days ago and my Mom doesn’t even know who he makes payments to because she’s never paid a bill," she wrote. "So we call and find out that like all the bills were paid up 6 months in advance." Not only did he pay the bills six months in advance, but he also put credits on the utilities, including gas, water, and electricity, that will last her FOR YEARS. Reaction to the Viral TweetIn addition to being viewed millions of times, thousands of people came forward to offer their condolences and to praise @AriThinks' father for his selflessness and unwavering devotion to his family."He loves her. Even death couldn’t take that away. May his sweet soul rest in perfect peace."@Lewa_Forbes via X"Accept my condolences but your father is truly an amazing man, RIP to him. Not all heroes wears capes... Salute," wrote @Nueladedoyinfi1."Wow, that peace to give her. Sorry for your loss. Condolences to you & your family," said @highlyher."So sorry for your loss. R.I.P. What an amazing thoughtful gift your father gave all of you! Oh my goodness to think that far ahead knowing all would need his foresight," Karen Williams commented.True Love Lasts ForeverThe commenters are right. It's not just the fact that the bills are paid that makes the gesture so heartwarming. It's the fact that this man had the foresight to ensure that his wife wouldn't have to shoulder the responsibility alone. Losing someone we love is one of the most painful and difficult things we have to endure in life. Sometimes it's all we can do to just keep breathing, never mind having to look after the day-to-day duties. By securing these essentials for his wife, he has provided her with a sense of security and stability during a time that feels anything but.His actions reflect a level of care, dedication, and consideration that goes beyond mere financial responsibility; it is love...in its purest form.He loved her so much in life that he wanted to make sure she was still okay in his death.Grand gestures of love are great but it's in the everyday, looking out for each other kind of ways, where true love is really found. It's in the small things people do for each other, just to make life easier. It's in sharing responsibilities so one person doesn't have to carry the burden alone. Even though he's gone, this husband's love for his wife lives on in his small gestures of kindness and care. And that? Is the kind of love that lasts forever.More from Goalcast:Woman Is Diagnosed With Dementia – So Her Husband of 55 Years Makes a VowShocked Mom Finds Dozens of Notes In Her Daughter’s Drawers – Realizes Her Husband Has Given ThemWoman Wakes Up to Husband’s Dirty Dishes in the Sink – Instead of Cleaning Up, He Left Her a Note With 3 Words

8-Year-Old Uses Her Allowance to Buy This Illegal Thing Heres Why Her Dad Is Calling Her Critics Envious
Uplifting News

8-Year-Old Uses Her Allowance to Buy This Illegal Thing Heres Why Her Dad Is Calling Her Critics Envious

In a bold move that defied conventional wisdom, eight-year-old Ruby McLellan, along with her siblings Angus McLellan and Lucy McLellan, made headlines by purchasing this bizarre thing with their allowance. In a world where "pocket money" typically fuels children's sweet tooth cravings or toy store adventures — you probably can't guess what it is.She Did What No 8-Year-Old Had Done BeforeUsing $6,000 of their pocket money, Ruby, 14-year-old Angus, and 13-year-old Lucy made history by putting a down payment on a four-bedroom house on Melbourne's southeast fringe two years ago, valued at $671,000.Despite facing online backlash and criticism calling their behavior "exploitive," the McLellan family stood by their decision. Ruby's father, Cam McLellan defended his daughter's actions as "required sacrifices" aimed at securing their financial future. He stressed the importance of teaching children the value of money and investing early, a lesson Ruby and her siblings are sure to take to heart. As of 2024, their home has increased in value from $671,000 to an estimated $960,000.How Did an 8-Year-Old Manage to Buy a House?TODAY Show/YouTubeIt's not rocket science. This is a pretty easy equation to solve. At just eight years old, Ruby McLellan didn't come into thousands of dollars by selling lemonade on her street corner. "There’s no easy silver bullet, but while my kids will get enough to get started, they are not silver spoons. They have a leg up, but so can anyone in Australia."Cam McLellan, Daily MailRuby's father, Cam McLellan, provided the funds for the house purchase, a fact that he readily acknowledges. While some may question the ethics of such a gift — and many people did — McLellan sees it as an investment in his children's financial education and future prosperity.So, does that make it right?The Public Attacked His Parenting — But He Couldn’t Care LessTODAY Show/ YouTubeAs soon as the news got ahold of this crazy story, McLellan came under fire. Critics speculated on the legality and morality of the move, with some suggesting it was a tax evasion scheme or, worse, exploitation of young minds. While McLellan frames the investment as an educational opportunity for his children, skeptics argue that the decision ultimately rests on his authority and influence. They worry that Ruby and her siblings might not fully understand what owning a property means. Some think that involving kids in such big financial decisions blurs the line between helpful guidance and too much control from parents. This raises questions about how much say children should have in matters like this and whether they might be taken advantage of. It's a reminder of how important it is to make sure kids are protected and understand what's going on when it comes to money.However, Mr. McLellan — who is the head of the OpenCorp property group — remained undeterred, emphasizing that the purchase was entirely legal and aimed at securing his children's financial future."It’s easy for someone who doesn’t have property or hasn’t made sacrifices, to be angry about it and easy to target a young kid who has a leg-up."Cam McLellanHe went on to share while tenants may find it "humiliating" to pay rent to children, he doubled down that this purchase was entirely driven by pragmatism, not to prove any point.One Father’s Divisive Advice for His Daughter’s “Haters”Cam McLellan had some fighting words for the naysayers and he quickly put himself at the center of a brewing media storm.McLellan was quick to say those attacking the "precocious property purchasers" — such as his prepubsecent children — would be better off devoting their energies to finding extra work, slice their discretionary spending, and saving money for their own first home."Young adults’ lifestyles are very flamboyant these days. I worked three jobs, I didn’t go out, I sold my car."Cam McLellan, Daily MailMr. McLellan went on to criticize the younger generation, encouraging them to "sacrifice" and "delay gratification." In an interview with the Daily Mail, he confidently concluded, "Eating in cafes and shopping has drained people’s money. Even owning a car, they like to change it every five years. I had the same car for ten years."Is It True? Is It Toxic? Or Is It Both?Cam McLellan's blunt advice has stirred debate, raising questions about the balance between financial prudence and the toll of excessive sacrifice. While his call for disciplined spending and hard work may resonate with some, others view it as a reflection of outdated attitudes towards wealth and success. McLellan's emphasis on austerity and delayed gratification may overlook the systemic barriers that hinder financial mobility for many young adults. As the conversation unfolds, it prompts reflection on the complex interplay between personal responsibility and societal structures in shaping financial outcomes.The duality of McLellan's advice — both true in its emphasis on frugality and hard work, yet potentially toxic in its failure to acknowledge systemic inequalities — highlights the need for a nuanced approach to financial education and empowerment. It underscores the importance of addressing both individual responsibility and broader structural issues to ensure equitable opportunities for all.But this isn't a conversation that concerns 8-year-old Ruby McLellan, who confirmed being a landlord at her age is "pretty cool."More from Goalcast:12-Year-Old Refuses to Do ‘Girl Chores’ Around the House – His Mom’s Response Goes ViralTeacher Hand Delivers Free Lunches to His Students at Their House – But That Wasn’t All He Brought8-Year-Old Loses All His Toys in a House Fire – Little Did He Know His Classmates and Teachers Had a Secret

Body Builder Dad Shamed for Forcing His 4 Year-Old to Lift Weights Then People Realized His Hidden Lesson
Uplifting News

Body Builder Dad Shamed for Forcing His 4 Year-Old to Lift Weights Then People Realized His Hidden Lesson

Brian "Boom" Lumbus is the gym dad who came under fire for "forcing" his 4-year-old son to lift weights in the gym.Lumbus, an online gym coach, dedicates his Instagram account to showcasing tips and tricks for others to try in the gym. However, when Lumbus first featured his now 4-year-old son lifting weights on his Instagram, people were outraged.They Dad-Shamed Him — “You’re Stunting His Growth”In the wake of Brian Lumbus' decision to involve his son in weightlifting, the harsh criticism could have weighed heavy on his shoulders, but thankfully for this bodybuilder it was nothing he couldn't handle! Naysayers were quick to voice concerns about the potential harm to his child's development. Accusations of "You're stunting his growth" flooded his social media platforms, casting a shadow of doubt over Lumbus' parenting choices. Yet, in the face of skepticism and dad-shaming, Lumbus stuck to his guns. In his heart he knew that he was offering his son something far more valuable than "temporary comfort" — people just didn't see it yet.But the million dollar question may be...with such a strong backlash, how much weight was this toddler really lifting?They Were Just Styrofoam Weights!The most interesting part of this whole story is that everything was totally safe and kid-friendly. The barbell "weights" are made of styrofoam, and the "lifting bench" is brightly colored and built exclusively for kids.As a body builder and dedicated parent, Lumbus was naturally educated on the subject and quick to clear up any misinformation. Even then, his critics — most of whom were uneducated on the matter — were slow to believe Lumbus' claims. So an expert "weighed" in and proved them all dead wrong. According to an article published by Men's Health, strength training is key to motor skill development and athleticism. ''Contrary to what some might have heard, introducing a strength protocol to young athletes will not stunt their growth". The experts added that kids can usually begin resistance training around the same age they become interested in sports — which tends to be between 6- and 8-years-old. And if you still don't believe him—see for yourself.Watch Brian "Boom" Lumbus' Video: The Secret Lesson Revealed: He’s “Building” His Son’s Character@boomlumbus/ InstagramIn a lot of ways, these styrofoam weights may seem like any other kind of toy a toddler his age may like to play with — but this couldn't be further from the truth. The meaning behind how this young boy interacts with this object makes all the difference. For Lumbus, the act of introducing his son to "weightlifting" at such a young age wasn't so much about building his physical strength; it was about instilling values of discipline, perseverance, and determination from a young age. Think of it like learning a new language. The older you get, the more difficult it becomes to learn that language. Children who are born in bilingual homes still must do the work to learn a new language, but they have a huge leg up because they are learning linguistics while their brain and motor functions are still forming.However, most importantly, Lumbus isn't just preaching his beliefs — he's living them out loud. By sharing his fitness journey with his 481K followers and showcasing his son's involvement, he's not only encouraging and inspiring other parents to follow suit but also providing practical resources! This gym dad turned into an entrepreneur when he launched his website and began selling his very own brand of weightlifting "equipment" (toys) for children. His biggest priority is to make all his knowledge accessible for those eager to start their own family journey of when it comes to this more hands-on approach to parenting.“Trust the Process” — Sometimes Lessons Aren’t Clear to Us at FirstAs a father and mentor, Lumbus understood the importance of leading by example and providing his son with the tools necessary to navigate life's challenges with confidence and determinationIn a world where instant gratification often takes precedence over hard work, Lumbus aims to impart a crucial life lesson to his son: success is earned through dedication and effort. By involving his son in his fitness journey, Lumbus is instilling the right values in his son — and it couldn't be sweeter father-son bonding.At the end of the day, family bonding looks different for everyone. What does it look like for you?More from Goalcast:Man With Special Needs Continuously Goes up to a Buff Stranger at Gym – Firefighter Takes Secret Photos of His ResponseWoman Goes to the Gym to Work Out – Breaks Down When She Hears These Startling Words From a ‘Hardcore’ Gym Bro“Tough Guy” Dad Loses It After Dropping His Son off at School — His Wife Immediately Started Recording

Woman Stops Visiting Her Baby Daughter in the Hospital - So the Married Nurses Taking Care of Her Take Her In
Family

Woman Stops Visiting Her Baby Daughter in the Hospital - So the Married Nurses Taking Care of Her Take Her In

Taylor and Drew Deras have a special place in their hearts for the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Methodist Women’s Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. Not only is it where they both work as registered nurses, but it's also where they met and fell in love. And now? It's where they found their family too, adopting a little girl, Ella, who was once one of their patients. On the Brink of SurvivalElla was only 1 pound, 2 ounces when she was born in May 2021. A micro-preemie, she was roughly the size of a mango.Born months before her due date, at 23 weeks and one day, she faced a long stay in the NICU, and even then, her odds of survival were low. Knowing her complex health challenges, Taylor immediately signed up to be her consistent caregiver. Unable to breathe on her own, Ella spent months on a ventilator. "She was intubated for multiple months at a time," Taylor told ABC News. "She was just very sick. There [were] times where the doctors would tell us, 'Watch her. I don't know if she'll make it through the night tonight.'" Miraculously Ella survived. By the summer of 2021, Ella required less oxygen and was drinking from a bottle. Her biological mother, who was in her early twenties, started working more and visiting less. Unable to cope with Ella's complex medical needs, eventually she just stopped visiting altogether.In December 2021, Ella became a ward of the state. Becoming Foster Parents to a Medically Fragile ChildBy this time, Ella had spent eight months in the NICU and both Taylor and Drew had fallen in love with the tiny fighter. They both spent hours with her, holding her and reading to her. Terrified about what would happen to the medically fragile girl in the foster system, the couple made a bold choice. They reached out to Ella's social worker and asked to be her foster parents. “When Ella’s biological mom heard we were interested in fostering, she said, ‘I want Ella to go to you,’” Taylor said. “She trusted us with her."But Ella wasn't out of the woods yet. Just as the couple were preparing to bring her home, Ella's health took a nose dive. The left side of her heart was failing. Instead of going home, Ella was rushed to the Children's Nebraska.She needed a tracheostomy — a surgically created hole in her windpipe that provides an alternative airway for breathing. As a result, she could no longer eat on her own but had to be fed through a tube in her stomach.It also meant she would require round-the-clock care. Already committed, the couple refused to back out. "As a foster parent, it was just like, the guard that you had prior to protect yourself of not falling in love with someone else's child, it just fizzled away, and you're just like, 'OK, this child needs me and I need them,'" Drew said.Ella Comes HomeOn April 7, 2022, Ella finally came home. Because of her special medical needs, the couple had to hire a nurse to be with her when they couldn't. That summer, Ella's biological parents relinquished all parental rights. And on November 18, 2023, National Adoption Day, Ella, now two years old, came home...for good.In front of a crowd of 40 family and friends, Ella became Ella Deras. And Taylor and Drew officially became “mama” and “dad.”After the judge announced Ella’s new name, the courtroom was quiet. “All you could hear was Ella go, ‘Yay.’ It’s the one thing that brings me to tears every time.”Drew DerasToday, Ella is thriving. With the help of a number of therapists and specialists, she's meeting all her milestones. "Now, she's walking and talking and meeting developmental milestones that a 2-year-old would do. And she'll start preschool in the fall," Taylor shared.It Was Meant to BeTaylor believes it was all part of God's master plan. "There's no other way," she said. There isn't just one road to parenthood. Families come in all shapes and sizes and through all different means. For Taylor and Drew, their family came together when they least expected it and in a way they never saw coming. But now? They can't imagine life without their little Ella. "We just feel lucky that it gets to be for the rest of her life," Drew said. "We just love her so much."More from Goalcast:Man Finds Out His Ex-girlfriend Wants to Put Their Daughter Up for Adoption – Flies Across the World to Stop ItNurse Notices No One Shows Up to Take Care of 14-Year-Old and Her Triplets – So She Adopts Them AllSingle Man Adopts Sick Baby With No Parents – He Grows Up to Make History