Patriots everywhere rejoiced after watching the U.S. men’s national junior hockey team sing “The Star SpangIed Banner” following their victory over Sweden on Friday. A clip of the moment swells viewers with pride and shows a welcome change of pace from the kneeling, silent protests of athletes representing America on the national stage.
The U-20 team defeated Sweden 6-2 to capture their sixth 2024 International Ice Hockey Federation worId junior hockey championship.
The guys played excellent today, head coach David Carle told USA Hockey. It’s a joy for them.
MUST-WATCH:
They focused on getting to this game and playing their best for the last game of the tournament and I thought they did that. It’s a great honor to be a part of a winning team. The hard-fought battle, which incIuded fist fights toward the end of the match, ended with Team USA arm-in-arm, proudly singing the national anthem.
Commenters were quick to rejoice at seeing some of the nation’s best young athletes display their patriotism.
Rich Landlord Evicts Poor Elderly Tenant, Then Walks Into a Shocking Surprise at Family Dinner!
A cold-hearted landlord gave a woman an eviction notice because she couldn’t pay her rent. But when he went to his sister’s house for dinner, he was shocked to see her there.
Life is tough, and it’s even worse when the people around us have no compassion. Diane Salinger knew what tough times were like. At sixty-two, she had faced more bad days than good and shed many tears.
But Diane wasn’t someone who gave up easily. Whenever life knocked her down, she got back up, ready to fight again. She lost her husband three years ago, and then a tornado destroyed her home. Still, she started over once more.
Source: Unsplash
She used her savings to buy a small grocery store in a nice town in Michigan. It was perfect for her—big enough to enjoy exotic items she wanted to sell, but small enough to feel cozy.
The town may have been cozy, but Diane’s landlord, Chris Turkle, wasn’t. Diane rented a small apartment from Chris that was close to her store.
When times are tough, people should help each other. Diane was the perfect tenant. She was quiet, respectful, and always paid her rent on time. Then one month, she came up short.
Chris counted the money from her envelope and waved it in her face. “You’re $120 short, Mrs. Salinger.”
Diane blushed. “As I explained, Mr. Turkle, with so many businesses struggling during Covid, I extended credit to some families in need. This month I’m a bit short. I’ll pay the $120 in two weeks.”
“If you want to play Mother Teresa, that’s your problem,” Chris snapped. “I’m a businessman, not a charity! I want you out by the end of the week!”
“But Mr. Turkle,” Diane pleaded. “It’s just one week, and I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again.”
“It happened once, and that’s enough. You’re out,” Chris said coldly as he walked away. He felt justified. Diane’s grocery store seemed busy, with people constantly coming in and out with full shopping bags. “Short on cash? Yeah, right,” Chris thought. “She’s just taking advantage.”
Chris went home to get ready for dinner at his sister Vanessa’s house. He often worried about her. She was a single mom, working two jobs to support herself and her 16-year-old son. Chris had offered her son a weekend job, but Vanessa always refused, saying, “It’s okay, Chris. I’ll manage.” But Chris had noticed she looked tired and worn out.
Since it was his nephew’s birthday, Chris tucked $20 in an envelope, put it in his jacket, and walked to Vanessa’s house.
Vanessa greeted him with a smile. She seemed more relaxed than usual, and the house smelled delicious. “Hey!” he said, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Where’s the birthday boy?”
“Playing video games with Diane,” Vanessa smiled. “Come on in!” She called up the stairs, “Joss, Diane, time for dinner!”
To Chris’ shock, in walked Mrs. Salinger—the tenant he had just evicted! She seemed to get along well with his sister and nephew. Diane looked surprised but stayed calm.
“Hello,” she said with a smile. “I didn’t know you were Vanessa’s brother.”
Chris blushed. “Yes, she’s my younger sister.”
“Everyone, come on! The roast is ready,” Vanessa called.
“Roast!” Joss exclaimed. “That’s my favorite! But mom, I thought you didn’t get paid until next week. How did you afford this?”
Diane smiled at Joss and patted his hand. “Don’t worry about that,” she said. “Your mom’s credit is good with me. Now, let’s eat!”
Chris leaned in and asked quietly, “Is Vanessa the person you’re helping?”
Diane nodded. “She’s one of them. One of her jobs didn’t work out, so I’m just helping until she’s back on her feet.”
Chris felt ashamed. “I’m so sorry… about everything. Why didn’t Vanessa ask me for help?”
Diane replied gently, “She has her pride. She wants to stand on her own. It’s easier to accept help from a friend than to feel like a burden on family.”
Chris whispered, “From now on, you can have the apartment at half-price. Consider it an investment in our town—and in my sister.”
By the end of the evening, Chris realized Diane was a kind and funny woman. He enjoyed her company, and his view of the community changed. He decided to follow Diane’s example and start offering a helping hand.
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