Learn 4 More Of The Most Important Human Characteristics To Be A Great Human
APPRECIATION | COMPASSION | CONFIDENCE | COOPERATION | COURAGE
Four Short Stories
First Responders
As the sun dipped behind the hills, a small crowd gathered outside the fire station. One by one, neighbors shook hands with the firefighters, paramedics, and police officers. Emily, clutching a homemade sign, stepped forward.
“Thank you,” she said, her voice was soft but steady. “You all put others first, and because of you, we sleep safely at night.”
The first responders smiled, touched by her sincerity.
“You’re our heroes,” she continued, “always there, risking everything.”
One of the firefighters nodded. “It’s our duty. But hearing this—makes it all worth it.”
It About Others
As the holidays approached, Claire sat in her small office, staring at the bills. The business had hit a rough patch, and the weight of it all bore down on her. But looking out at her nineteen employees—people who had become like family—she made a decision.
“I’ll figure it out,” she whispered to herself.
For weeks, she juggled payments, cut her own salary, and worked late into the night. When December came, she gathered her team.
“We’re staying open through the holidays,” Claire said, smiling despite the strain. “No one loses their job.”
Tears welled in grateful eyes.
Overwhelming
Nick’s heart raced as he stood at the spot where he and Sandra had their first date, the soft glow of city lights reflecting in her eyes. They’d been together for two years, but his nerves were stronger than ever. What if she said no?
He took a deep breath, steeling himself. “Sandra, you’re the love of my life. I’ve been afraid but I can’t imagine living my life or in world without you…”
He dropped to one knee, revealing the ring. “Will you marry me?”
Her eyes filled with tears, and she smiled. “Yes, Nick. A thousand times yes.”
Hope
The tornado devastated Harmony, leaving homes destroyed and lives lost. Once divided by cultural differences, the town’s diverse community stood united in grief. As the dust settled, neighbors from all backgrounds—including Mexican, Somali, Irish, Indian, and Korean—everyone came together to rebuild.
People shared skills, meals, and stories, working side by side. They didn’t just restore Harmony; they created something stronger. A new community center emerged, celebrating every culture. Festivals honored everyone’s heritage, bridging divides once thought permanent.
Harmony wasn’t just a name; it became a way of life, as together, they rebuilt not just their town but their hope.
Author’s note: This last story never happened, but over my years of experience helping others in multiple countries, I’ve seen it. If it can happen once, it can happen again and again.
Looking Forward:
Next week, we’ll cover five traits.
The last issue in their series will cover one exceptional trait. I’m also going to have a guest writer, Libby Shively McAvoy. I’m sure many of you know her writing.
If the concept of 5 traits, in 100 words each in your inbox, sounds engaging, please give me some feedback. DR
My I bribe you?
I’d like to offer you a FREE gift in exchange for putting you on our TinyTales.Press website email list. We won’t share it. If you’ll click here, you’ll get the brief details.
Thank you,
DR