Year-End Review: Help in Tough Times

Often, looking back at a year as it comes to a close means that we take stock of everything that has happened in the world. It can be an exciting exercise (This was the year the USA Women’s Soccer Team won the World Cup!), but also painful and saddening as we remember tragedies that may have occurred.

Fortunately, Mr. Rogers gave us all a hopeful, comforting way to view tragedies: Look for the helpers. We were excited to find this roundup from Upworthy of 8 times “helpers” brought positivity to difficult events in 2015. Use it to spark dialogue at your family dinner table as you prepare to ring in a new — and hopefully bright — year.

• Can you think of other examples of “helpers” who have made challenging situations better, whether from the news or from your own life?
• Have you ever been a “helper?” Talk about that moment and what it was like.
• Some people say that it takes a special kind of person to be a “helper.” Do you think that’s true? Can anyone be a “helper?”
• What qualities do you think a person would need to be of assistance in a difficult or dangerous situation?
• Do you think news stories and the internet make it easier to look for the helpers, or more difficult? Why?
• What’s the event you would most like to read about in the New Year?