In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in negative news, but there’s something refreshing about seeking out positive stories, especially those involving boys and young men. Every so often, it’s worth taking a moment to celebrate their acts of courage, kindness, and selflessness. That’s why I’ve made a habit of looking for heartwarming news stories about boys each Friday, which I like to call “Feel Good Friday.” These stories often feature boys doing incredible things that go unnoticed in the daily news cycle. By searching for terms like “boy hero” and filtering by news, you’ll uncover countless tales of bravery and heroism.
Whether they’re standing up to robbers, rescuing family members from danger, or acting in life-or-death situations, boys and young men constantly show the world that they’re capable of greatness. It’s important to remember this and seek out these moments of inspiration. Often, we’re flooded with negative narratives, especially around young men. But by taking the time to search for these heroic stories, we can shift our perspective and celebrate their positive impact on society.
Just last week, I found a story that hit particularly close to home. In my hometown of River Falls, Wisconsin—a small community of about 15,000 people—12-year-old Ryan displayed remarkable bravery. After his father wounded a bear while hunting, the bear attacked, leaving his father in grave danger. Without hesitation, Ryan stepped in and killed the bear, saving his father’s life. It’s a reminder that heroism often happens in the most unexpected places and that boys like Ryan are capable of extraordinary things, even under the most intense pressure.
So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by negativity, take a moment to search for a “boy hero” and see what good news you can find. You’ll be amazed at the stories of boys driving school buses to safety, diving into icy rivers to save others, or protecting their families from harm. These acts of courage don’t always make the front page, but they serve as a powerful reminder that boys and young men are making a positive difference in the world every day.
William A. Draves is the President of Learning Resources Network (LERN). LERN is the leading association in lifelong learning programming in the world, serving over 1,000 organizations every year.