Navigating a World in Crisis with Moments of Joy
This week has felt like the world is imploding, making it tough to turn on the news yet impossible to look away. Many of us know someone affected by events in Dubai, Europe, or struggling travel agents stuck on hold with airlines. While I lack the expertise for detailed geopolitical analysis—unlike some on TikTok—I believe staying in my lane is best, though I will say: when children are harmed, there is a clear problem. Instead of dwelling on the darkness, I have scoured the internet to bring you bursts of positivity and joyful stories.
Winter Olympics Inspiration: A Chance to Shine
For those who watched the Winter Olympics and thought, "I could do that!", here is exciting news. Bobsleigh & Skeleton Australia is actively recruiting the next generation of skeleton athletes. If you think you have what it takes to slide facedown and headfirst down an icy track at speeds up to 140km/h—essentially on an esky lid—this is your opportunity. Sign up for their recruitment drive and you might find yourself competing in the French Alps in four years. You will need to submit an athletic resume, which should be more detailed than "Slid down a Lancelin sand dune on cardboard once." But with a bobsledder from Laverton recently competing at Milano Cortina, anything is possible. Perhaps you have an untapped knack for this thrilling sport.
Celestial Celebrations: A Blood Moon on New Year's Eve
After the recent blood moon captivated audiences worldwide, it has been noted that the next one will occur on New Year's Eve in 2028. This provides a perfect reason to finally have plans for the often underwhelming holiday. I have long found NYE celebrations to be a bit of a fizzer, preferring to be home by 10pm to avoid drunken crowds and exorbitant rideshare prices. Last time I ventured out, it cost over $100 to travel from Northbridge to East Fremantle. However, for a blood moon, I am willing to make an exception. It is a natural spectacle that surpasses fireworks, as it won't upset pets like dogs. With 1029 days to go, it is never too early to start planning.
Heartwarming Tales: A Baby Monkey and Stuffed Friends
If the world can be captivated by a rejected baby monkey and his stuffed monkey friend at a Japanese zoo, it shows we are either desperate for lighthearted stories or our hearts have softened. The collective "Awwww" from people globally is something to celebrate. For those in need of their own stuffed monkey companion—and let's be honest, we all do at times—the Djungelskog toy is available at Ikea for $15.99, though it is currently sold out. This minor setback aside, the story reminds us of the simple joys that bring us together.
AI for Good: Breakthroughs in Breast Cancer Detection
While fears abound that AI might take jobs or turn against humanity, Australian scientists are using it for a noble cause. They have developed an AI tool that detects women at high risk of breast cancer, even when previous screenings gave them the all clear. This technology identifies risk factors invisible to the human eye, making it far more effective at early detection. This is a far better use of AI than frivolous tasks, like imagining dogs as human hipster baristas—though, for the record, my dog does look quite dashing in that role. This innovation highlights how technology can serve humanity in profound ways.
Seeking Positivity in Everyday Life
Finding good news stories was not easy; it required diligent hunting, which speaks volumes about the current state of the world and our appetite for grim headlines. My advice is to look around and notice small positives, whether it is a perfectly flaky croissant, a cheerful bird, or the return of footy season—though as a dedicated Eagles supporter, I am not entirely convinced that is good news. I hope you find your own source of positivity this week, amidst the chaos.
