With the New Year nearing the corner, it’s hard not to feel a bit retrospective or nostalgic even. Sometimes we can get carried away planning out our weeks, months, or even years, and it's easy to forget the moments of joy.

We here at SATXtoday want to take the time to look back at all the stories that made us smile in 2021.

UTSA hosted its second Fall 2021 Commencement Ceremony for 3,000+ grads at the Alamodome. Among the graduates were Rene Neira, 87, and his granddaughter Melanie Salazar. Melanie was able to wheel her grandfather across the stage where he received his degree in recognition while she received her bachelor’s degree in communications. 🎓

Pat Good, a San Antonio native was treated for a fainting spell at Methodist Hospital Metropolitan in April. Pat was misdiagnosed with a stroke and COVID-19. Though cleared of COVID-19, Pat could not leave the unit and instead decided to build relationships with the nurse staff. After the incident, she began baking fresh pastries and delivering the goods to the staff every Wednesday as a token of appreciation. 🍪 (KSAT-12)

Vietnam veteran Robert James Briggs, 77, — battling stage 4 cancer — was presented with the Purple Heart medal by US Rep. Joaquin Castro on Mon., Nov. 8. for his incredible act of bravery during a land mine explosion. Now a grandfather of five and great-grandfather of seven, Briggs is full of optimism and will not let his illness bring him down. 🎖️ (San Antonio Express-News)

For an honorable mention, check out our Pets news note and see how you can contribute to a feel good moment.

We hope these stories have restored your faith in humanity. Let us know if you have a Feel Good story you’d like to share with us in 2022.