Winning Hearts
Both of my parents chose service professions (teaching and nursing) and spent nights and weekends volunteering. Both taught that a life dedicated to helping others is one full of purpose and meaning.
I am a physician and have worked with the homeless community for 11 years. I'm also a mom to two boys who dirt bike. At their first race, my oldest went first and managed to catch a little air. My youngest surprised me even more. Every time a rider fell or crashed, he'd stop and wait until they got up. He lost the race but won at being a good human. Parenting isn't easy, but it'll surprise you.
— SARA DOORLEY Tijeras, New Mexico
Just Fishin'
My dad was an avid fisherman and loved taking me with him. We'd wake early and drive to his favorite hole.
We'd stop for breakfast, and he'd get steak and eggs. I'd be his helper launching the boat, holding the line while he parked the car. Then we'd head out to catch “the big one." Now I take my granddaughter fishing. She has caught bullhead and bass—what excitement!—and can cast her own line. Nana hooks the worms.
The Trace Adkins song “Just Fishin'" goes, “She ain't even thinkin' 'bout what's really goin' on right now, but I guarantee this memory's a big'in and she thinks we're just fishin." Every time I hear it, I feel my dad's love. I hope my granddaughter feels my love for her.
- BARBARA FAGENBAUM Penfield, New York
Banding Together
I started band as a high-school freshman with my brother's baritone horn. I didn't have prior lessons as my bandmates did, so it was much harder for me. When I told my mom I was quitting, she promptly told me I was not. In due time I absolutely loved band.
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Reader's Digest US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Reader's Digest US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GOTCHA!
We asked for it: What's the best prank you ever pulled?
KITT THE COURAGEOUS K-9
Officer Bill Cushing needed a partner. His dog needed a purpose. Together, they rescued each other.
Let's Dance!
It's good for your body, soul and even your brain
DISASTER ON THE RIVER
Two canoeists struggle to keep themselves and their friendship-afloat
WHAT HAPPENS TO ALL THE STUFF WE RETURN
Think your rejects go back on the shelves? Think again.
Words to Live By
Poems offered me an anchor as I lost my son, so I shared them
LOST, FOUND, HOMEWARD BOUND
A collection of heart-thumping, tail-wagging, zoomies-inducing pet reunion tales
Paging Dr. AI
IF YOU'VE EVER Googled symptoms (and who hasn't?), you've probably scared yourself with a dire diagnosis, with no doctor there to vet the source and put the information in context. But we can't help ourselves. So can AI help?
The HEALTHY WELLNESS FROM THEHEALTHY.COM
A vaccine is finally on the way. In the meantime, here's how to protect yourself from ticks.
How to Speak Like a Midwesterner
FROM THE BOOK A GUIDE TO MIDWESTERN CONVERSATION