Latest news with #MadeMeSmile
Newsweek
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Graduate Opens Gift—Tears at What Has Been Preserved From 10 Years Ago
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A man from Washington, D.C. has left internet users in tears after sharing what his girlfriend bought him as a graduation gift. Joshua "J.B." Branch, who goes by u/A_Rogue_One, posted on the r/MadeMeSmile subreddit with an image of a handmade wall piece that reads: "Nothing is more satisfying than watching your educational talents grow. With love, Dad." Branch, a recent graduate of Harvard Kennedy School, told Newsweek that the handwriting was taken from a Christmas card his father, Joseph, gave him over a decade ago during his first year of law school. Split view of Joshua "J.B." Branch with his father, Joseph (left) and J.B. with his girlfriend, Taylor Burnett (right) at graduation. Split view of Joshua "J.B." Branch with his father, Joseph (left) and J.B. with his girlfriend, Taylor Burnett (right) at graduation. Joshua "J.B." Branch "I literally said, 'Oh my god, that's my dad's handwriting,' and I ran my hand over [it]," Branch said. "I started to tear up because I realized with that gift, I'll always have something tangible connecting me to him." The 34-year-old explained that his father has dementia, and his condition has worsened over the last five years. At first, he struggled to see how it was changing his father. "I went through the stages of grief," he told Newsweek. "I was often angry because you want the version of your dad that you remember. I've struggled with substance abuse when I wasn't handling my emotions well. Through a lot of therapy, I've gotten to a point where I accept this disease and the role it plays in my dad's life." The framed note was a surprise from Branch's girlfriend, Taylor Burnett, who had been in a long-distance relationship with him while he completed his master's degree in AI Governance and Tech Policy. "During one of my visits, I noticed a Christmas card that he had displayed on his desk," Burnett told Newsweek. "The card read, 'Nothing is more satisfying than watching your educational talents grow. With Love Dad.' With Josh's graduation coming up, I knew I needed to do something with Joseph's beautiful words to honor the moment." Using Etsy vendor Kristi Rudek, Burnett transformed Joseph's handwritten message into a wall hanging. "Now Josh can see his father's words every day in our home," she said. At the time of writing, Branch's post has received 22,000 upvotes and dozens of comments, many of whom were moved by the sentimental gift. "Your girlfriend is a darling. And what a good man your dad is. Gosh, I have tears in my eyes," one user wrote. "As someone with a disabled parent, this is such a treasure. I have a few letters from my mom before she was unable to write anymore. I treasure them deeply," another added. Handmade wall piece that reads: "Nothing is more satisfying than watching your educational talents grow. With love, Dad." Handmade wall piece that reads: "Nothing is more satisfying than watching your educational talents grow. With love, Dad." Joshua "J.B." Branch For Branch, it was important for his dad to attend graduation. He told Newsweek that his father grew up as a sharecropper, picking cotton and harvesting tobacco in North Carolina. Joseph also joined the navy in ninth grade for "a better life" and immediately went to the Korean War. "I'm living a life he didn't get to live because of his sacrifices," Branch told Newsweek. "When I achieve something, I feel it's shared success, both mine and my family's. At graduation my dad was excited and smiling, every time he saw me in my graduation gown he had a smile from ear to ear." Now working as the Big Tech Accountability Advocate at Public Citizen, Branch said his work is about ensuring AI benefits everyone. "A big reason I went back to school was that my parents instilled in me that you need to be happy doing your job and I wasn't any longer," he said. "With my dad's condition, I've had a shift in thinking where it's become less about accolades and headlines. It's more about just being happy with what I'm doing."
Montreal Gazette
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Montreal Gazette
‘Fauxvreau': Greenspot thanks director Jon Favreau for visiting diner, only it's not him
If a celebrity visits your establishment, it's customary to thank them on social media for dropping by. In the case of St-Henri diner Greenspot, their Instagram post earlier this June thanking American actor and director Jon Favreau for making the trip has gone viral because the man in the photo, while baring a slight resemblance, is clearly not the director and executive producer of The Mandalorian. 'Thank you for your visit,' the Instagram post read. 'We looking forward to welcoming you again soon.' The post also tagged the filmmaker, who has yet to respond. He is posting almost exclusively about his work on Star Wars these days. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Greenspot Restaurant (@greenspot1947) That didn't stop others from pointing out that the man in the photo isn't the Swingers star. Commenters called the impostor everything from 'Jean Favfaux' to 'Jon Favno.' While the post in question made locals chuckle when it was posted on June 15, only recently has it taken on new life internationally. On Reddit's MadeMeSmile Subreddit, one poster said they 'can't stop smiling' from the IG post. On X, Barstool Sports host Jeff D. Lowe wrote Sunday: 'Lmao I'm crying at this post. Some restaurant in Montreal posted a thank you to Jon Favreau for visiting their spot. It's just quite simply not him.' That prompted Cllct Media's Darren Rovell to respond: 'Maybe him in 1985.' For now, Greenspot has kept the post up. Lmao I'm crying at this post. Some restaurant in Montreal posted a thank you to Jon Favreau for visiting their spot. It's just quite simply not him. — Jeff D. Lowe (@JeffDLowe) June 29, 2025 Meanwhile, Favreau is the director of The Mandalorian and Grogu, a new film from the Star Wars universe set for release in theatres in 2026.
Newsweek
17-06-2025
- General
- Newsweek
Employee Mortified After Panic Attack at Work—Then Receives Note From Boss
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Internet users are rallying around a boss's act of kindness after an employee had to leave work due to a panic attack. A few days later, their employer sent a heartfelt handwritten card—and the gesture has touched thousands online. Reddit user u/GI-Robots-Alt shared the story in the r/MadeMeSmile subreddit, explaining what happened to their partner. "My partner, who has major anxiety and depressive disorders, had a panic attack at work last week, was super embarrassed, and had to leave early. They got this card from their boss a few days later. It made me cry a little honestly. I'm so thankful that they have such an understanding employer," the user wrote. The post, which has received more than 6,100 upvotes, included a photo of the card, which contained a message of empathy, encouragement, and affirmation. The boss thanked the employee for being themselves and for bringing "art," "kindness," "joy," and "light" to those around them. They reminded the employee of their "incredible strength" and emphasized how much they are appreciated, writing that they show up and do their best every day. The message concluded: "Don't let anyone make you forget. The world needs what you have to offer." Stock image: A woman smiles as she reads a card at a table. Stock image: A woman smiles as she reads a card at a table. Farknot_Architect/iStock / Getty Images Plus Expert Insight Licensed therapist Alyssa Kushner, LCSW, told Newsweek why gestures like this are especially meaningful following workplace panic attacks. "A simple 'You're not in trouble. I care about you. Take the time you need' can be so deeply healing," she said. "The handwritten card in this story is a beautiful example of relational safety—and a reminder that small acts of compassion can undo layers of shame," Kushner added. She added that panic attacks at work often feel particularly shameful because our self-worth is so closely tied to our performance and how "together" we appear. In fast-paced, high-pressure environments, many people push through stress and burnout silently, afraid of judgment or stigma. So when a panic attack becomes visible—crying, shaking, or leaving suddenly—it can feel like a personal failure or loss of composure, especially for those who struggle with perfectionism. What actually helps, Kushner said, is nonjudgmental, compassionate support—exactly like what this boss provided. Acknowledging what happened without minimizing or ignoring it can help regulate the nervous system and restore a sense of safety. Certified trauma-informed human potential coach Kamini Wood also weighed in, telling Newsweek: "In order for businesses to be more productive and successful long-term, recognizing that employees are human beings and have trauma or emotional challenges at times is so important." "As humans, we all need to be seen and heard," Wood continued. "When someone is experiencing an emotional or mental challenge, it is vital to give them space and to allow them what they need in order for their nervous system to regulate again." Reddit Reacts Thousands of Reddit users were moved by the post and praised the boss for their empathy and leadership. "That is a great boss with strong, empathetic leadership skills," one user wrote. "Came here to say this. Amazing boss!" added another. "I love hearing these stories. It restores my faith in humanity. My boss is the exact opposite. This gives me hope!" someone else shared. "My boss is like this and it's why my loyalty is to her and not the owner of the company I work for. True leadership at its best!" another commenter noted. One user summed it up perfectly: "There's a pretty common phrase with a lot of variations that's basically, 'People don't leave bad jobs, they leave bad bosses.' The inverse also seems true; that people will stay when they have good bosses." Newsweek reached out to u/GI-Robots-Alt for comment via Reddit. We could not verify the details of the case. Newsweek's "What Should I Do?" offers expert advice to readers. If you have a personal dilemma, let us know via life@ We can ask experts for advice on relationships, family, friends, money and work, and your story could be featured on "WSID" at Newsweek.
Newsweek
20-05-2025
- General
- Newsweek
Homeowner Decides To Rip Out Wall—Discovers Secret Note Hidden for Decades
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A post about an unexpected discovery made by a homeowner during a renovation project has captivated users on Reddit. When u/humblemandudebroguy decided to renovate the downstairs of their home, they weren't expecting to uncover a slice of history tucked away behind the drywall. But that's exactly what happened when they tore into a wall and found a handwritten note from 1989. The incident was detailed in a post titled "Found this in the wall while ripping out drywall [OC]" in the r/MadeMeSmile subreddit. It has garnered 9,800 upvotes and hundreds of comments since it was shared on May 14, with many praising the humor and heart behind the surprise discovery. The note, dated August 6, 1989, reads: "Today my mother and I are hanging the dry wall for this. I personally hope that it's as much of a pain for you to [tear] this apart as it was for us making it! Have a nice day!" In the caption accompanying his post, the homeowner wrote: "I decided to remodel my downstairs and while I was ripping out drywall I found this note dated 1989." In a later comment, the poster shared more context about the house's history. "The previous owner was a truck driver. I guess he died in the house while his younger sister watched over him. He had a heart attack or something," the poster wrote, adding "I know that there was a couple kids raised in this house too that are all grown up now. And now we're planning on living here for another 20 years at least. We are raising 3 kids." The sentiment captured in the 1989 note—a tangible expression of the effort and care poured into a home—aligns with broader trends in how people view their living spaces. A March 2025 survey by Talker Research, commissioned by outdoor design company System Pavers, found that 78 percent of American homeowners see their homes as extensions of themselves. Among millennial homeowners, that number jumps to 88 percent. The study surveyed 2,000 homeowners and underscored the emotional attachment many feel toward their dwellings. Whether it's through personal decor, family milestones, or—as in the case of the viral Reddit post—notes left behind in the walls, people often treat their homes as vessels of memory and identity. The discovery of the note—written with a mix of wit and candor—has resonated with many on Reddit. Commenters reflected on the personal connections people form with their homes, with u/JasonZep remarking, "lol, at least they were honest," while u/InstructionTop4805 wrote, "So honest and wonderful. Your house has history and people who cared for it. You should be honored, no matter how f'ing a pain renovations are." Several users encouraged preserving the note as a tribute to the home's past. "I'd frame it and hang it on the new drywall once it's done. But don't forget to leave a note of your own inside the wall," u/STABO1217 suggested. U/CUTiger14 chimed in with appreciation from a professional perspective, saying: "As a guy who does home repair, I love this. A little note from the unknown." Redditors were quick to express how such a small gesture carried a lasting impact. "A message in a wall - love it!!" said u/yagot2bekidding. U/ooogyboogybooo added a humorous twist, musing: "I love this! Give me ideas for what I can put in my project... 'If you're reading this, it's already too late. The portal is open and you must finish the quest.'" Newsweek has contacted the original poster for comment via the Reddit messaging system. A stock image of a person examining an exposed wall. A stock image of a person examining an exposed wall. Getty Do you have a home renovation-related story to share? Let us know via life@ and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
Time of India
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Real men cry': Tearful airport goodbye between father and son melts hearts online
A touching video capturing an emotional goodbye between a father and son at the airport has recently gone viral, moving thousands across the internet. Shared on the heartwarming subreddit MadeMeSmile, the video has garnered over 4,000 upvotes and an outpouring of emotional reactions from Reddit users. In the brief but powerful clip, a young man is seen embracing his father tightly, holding back tears as he leans in to kiss his father's cheek—a silent but deeply expressive gesture of love and comfort. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack India strikes hard! New Delhi bans all imports from Pakistan How Pakistan is preparing for the worst as India weighs response If India attacks Pakistan, China & B'desh should seize 7 NE states, says Yunus' aide In a follow-up video, the raw intensity of their farewell continues to unfold. The father, clearly overwhelmed, struggles to maintain composure while his son gently holds him, their shared moment breaking the typical stoic mold often expected in father-son dynamics. The deeply human display of vulnerability struck a chord with viewers, prompting an emotional wave of comments. One Redditor wrote, 'Real men feel. That hug said more than words ever could.' Another shared, 'Damn, hit me right in the feels. My dad and I have that same kind of connection. Some moments are too deep for words, you know?' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Moose Approaches Girl At Bus Stop In Zamboanga Del Sur - Watch What Happens Happy in Shape Undo The clip has also sparked broader reflections on fatherhood, masculinity, and regret. 'Don't care how manly you are. I'll always hug my dad before I leave. Because one day, you won't get that hug…' one user remarked, capturing the bittersweet reality many eventually face. Several comments encouraged fathers to be more emotionally expressive. 'Hey dads, it's okay to cry and give them the bear hug. Let them know you're crazy about them,' one person wrote. Among the most poignant responses came from a user who recalled a heartbreaking personal experience: 'On the eve of my 23rd birthday, I had an argument with my Dad. We didn't speak much that day. He passed away that night in his sleep from a heart attack. If I could change one moment in my life, it would be that birthday. I'm 32 now, and I'm still haunted by it. Love you, Dad. I'm so sorry…' The video serves as a stark reminder of the preciousness of time, the weight of unspoken love, and the importance of never letting a moment of connection slip away.
