Now I know what you’re thinking: “2017? Nothing good happened in 2017,” and I have to admit that when I first got the idea for this article, I was excited. But when my family and I couldn’t think of anything good for fifteen minutes, I wasn’t sure whether it was going to be possible or not. So I Googled “good things that happened in 2017” and noticed that nothing that was listed had occurred in the United States which, again, left me unsure if I should write this or not. But then I got to thinking. I thought about all of the tragedies that took place this year and then I remembered what was done after them. I remembered the incredible amount of protests that went against the corrupt views of our government and stood up for what was right. I remembered the men and women who used their platforms for good and gave to those in need.
With Thanksgiving tomorrow, I wanted us, as a country, to be able to look back at this year and recognize the positives. So I have compiled a list that includes people and events which show that 2017 was more than just another crappy year.
The Post-Inauguration Marches
Jan. 20 was not a fun day for a majority of Americans; with the entrance of an unfit-to-serve president, there had to be something happening that would give us hope. This sorrow seemed to last just a day thanks to the millions of men and women who got out and marched in what seemed like every corner of the country. Celebrities and those with large followings made empowering speeches that resonated with the current somber climate of the nation. The numbers were especially what shed light on a possibly positive future; between 3 and 4 million people showed up to march in nine different cities. Millions of people, after losing the election due to the electoral vote, managed to come together and march for what they knew what right.
Rihanna Launching Fenty Beauty
One blessing that we received in 2017 was Rihanna’s launch of Fenty Beauty in the fall. With a wider range of shades than seen before from other companies, this brand proved that it was making beauty products for all different people of all different skin tones (finally). According to Newsweek, Fenty sold $72 million in the first month alone, proving how much anticipation was rooted within its release.
Chance the Rapper donated $1 million to a struggling Chicago school district.
Ariana Grande and others helped to raise $13 million for the We Love Manchester Fund after the Manchester terrorist attack.
Marc Anthony created We Are One Voice as well as a GoFundMe page which raised $743,380 for Hurricane Maria relief efforts.
Jim McIngvale opened up his Houston furniture store locations to provide shelter for over 200 victims of Hurricane Harvey. Previously, he had done the same thing for New Orleans victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Good things have come out of this year. Whether they be big or small, they matter. There is a lot of evil in this world, but that evil does not stand a chance against the good. Let’s end this year on a positive note and recognize the small acts of kindness that occur every day to help make our world a better place.
