This sweet video shows how an elephant still remembers her old trainer from 35 years ago. What a special sight to see!
The former zookeeper, Peter Adamson, has wonderful memories from the time when he took care of Kristy the Asian elephant at a zoo in Scotland. From feeding, to washing, to training, these two spent many hours throughout the years bonding. Even though that was back in the early ‘70s and ‘80s, Kristy still remembers those good times with Peter as well.
“Do I smell the same?” Peter asks Kristy this question as he blows into her truck and she leans into him. The pair look so adorable cuddling up next to each other, almost like no time has passed between them.
While Peter was staying with some friends in Germany, he found out that Kristy was still alive and well and had been transferred to Neunkircher Zoo. Since the zoo was just a short distance from where he was visiting, he knew he had to make an effort to reunite with his old elephant friend.
It’s remarkable that Kristy was still alive and in good health, because she had reached 52 years in age. The typical life expectancy for Asian elephants is 48 years old. The number of Asian elephants has unfortunately “plummeted by at least 50% in the past three generations” because of habitat loss and poaching. Thanks to kind caretakers like Peter, we can hopefully see that the remaining Asian elephant population in zoos will continue to thrive and grow.
After Peter contacted the Neunkircher Zoo, the employees there were able to arrange a special reunion for Kristy and her former trainer while Peter was in Germany. How wonderful that these two were able to reconnect after all these years and rekindle the bond that they have
The Voice contestant Rod Stokes sings for his spot in the competition with a rousing rendition of ‘Brother’ from NEEDTOBREATHE.
After performing ‘Go Rest High On That Mountain’ during the semi-finals, Rod found himself in the bottom three. The contestants were given another chance to sing and try to earn the votes of America. Rod stepped on stage and belted out the powerful lyrics of this hit song.
‘Brother let me be your shelter
Never leave you all alone
I can be the one you call
When you’re low
Brother let me be your fortress
When the night winds are driving on
Be the one to light the way
Bring you home’
This powerful song was inspired by the real life relationship between NEEDTOBREATHE brothers, and band mates, Bear and Bo Rinehart. It truly reminds us that our siblings are such an important part of our lives. Like our Father in Heaven, they provide us comfort when we are down and love at all times.
Today, Rod Stokes is hoping that this popular Christian song will secure him a spot in the next round of competition. Rod is the last remaining member of Team Kelly and this is his last shot at staying on The Voice. He truly brought everything he had to this performance and you can feel the passion and weight of every single word.
Rod has truly been a talented performed throughout this competition and, regardless of the outcome, I have a feeling that we’ll be seeing his name in the future.
Country legend Randy Travis shares the daily struggles he is faced with after a 2013 stroke.
Randy Travis broke onto the music scene in the 1980s. His deep and distinctive voice gave us hits such as ‘Forever And Ever, Amen’ and ‘Three Wooden Crosses.’ But everything came to a screeching halt nearly six years ago.
Randy almost lost his life after suffering from a devastating stroke that left in a coma for 72 hours. Even though he couldn’t communicate, Randy could hear and understand everything that was going on around him. He even heard when the doctor’s advised his family that recovery was slim and they should consider pulling the plug. That’s when Randy’s soon-to-be wife, Mary, stood by his side and asked for a sign.
Randy was able to squeeze her hand and she knew that he would continue to battle no matter what. “Even in his state, his semi-coma state, he squeezed my hand… I just I saw this tear just fell. And it was, you know, one, two at a time. And I just went back to the doctors and I said, 'We're fighting this.'''
It was over a year before Randy would regain the ability to speak and walk without a cane. Today, Randy still struggles just to take a step and his vocal ability is limited. But that’s not stopping this country superstar from sharing his story in hopes that others will find inspiration in his words.
Randy’s wife ends the interview by saying, “What I've learned about him is that he hadn't forgotten anything, but the world will never forget him either.”
A vocal coach becomes the singing voice for one of her students after he is diagnosed with ALS.
Bernie Dalton always had a passion for music. This single father’s dream never left his heart, so he decided in 2016 to start taking vocal lessons with Essence Golman. Essence noted that ‘Bernie showed up to each lesson filled with inspiration, songs to share, and eager to learn healthy vocal techniques to expand his range and build his confidence as a singer.’
But one day, his voice suddenly disappeared. For a while, no one could quite figure out what was happening. After a visit to a neurologist, Bernie was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 47. Even though Bernie lost his voice and was quickly losing other motor functions, he still wanted to pursue music.
One of his final wishes was to create an album with his daughter, Nicole. He asked Essence, his vocal coach, to be the voice for the lyrics he had been writing. With the help of other talented musicians, they fulfilled his dream in an amazing way. One of the songs featured on the album was actually written for Bernie’s future grandchildren.
This particular video showcases Bernie And The Believers performing one of Bernie’s original songs, ‘Unusual Boy.’ Surrounded by his band, Bernie lays in a hospital bed fixated on the music. It’s truly an emotional, yet inspiring moment. Sadly, Bernie passed away in May 2019, but his legacy will continue to live on through his music and passion.
Today Show personality Jenna Bush Hager shares opens up about learning a sweet lesson from a child at church.
While sitting down with Savannah Guthrie for the fourth hour of The Today Show, an interesting study from The Wall Street Journal was brought up. As we grow older, adults are finding it harder and harder to make friends. But there is another interesting fact found in the study.
Jenna explained, “So experts have found that people’s moods improve after having conversation with a total stranger.” She was reminded of this simple principal during a recent church service. One of her daughters was having a difficult time being alone for Sunday school.
That’s when another child in the classroom came up to Jenna’s little girl and introduced herself. The two new friends hugged and Jenna’s daughter was immediately cheerful and ready to be on her own.
“These little things that are so easy for kids become harder for adults,” Jenna said. Savannah and Jenna went on to say that many adults are so focused on their destination or have their heads in their phones. But when we take the time to look up, something truly amazing can happen.
“Everyday, if you can have a little bit of a surprise interaction with somebody. Smile at somebody, wave at somebody, tell somebody that they look beautiful. Whatever it is, let’s make people happy.” Sometimes, all it takes is a simple gesture from a child to remind us all what this world is really about.
The Voice contestant Rod Stokes sings the classic Vince Gill song ‘Go Rest High On That Mountain’ during the semi-final performances.
Vince started writing this iconic song in 1989, after the death of fellow country artist Keith Whitley. But it would be years before Vince was able to finally finish the composition.
After it’s release, the song skyrocketed to the top of the charts. It won 2 Grammy awards and CMA's Song of the Year award in 1996. ‘Go Rest High On That Mountain’ is noted for the poignant lyrics that have stood the test of time and touched hearts all over the world.
Today, Rod Stokes is taking on this legendary song during the semi-finals of The Voice. Rod has made it all the way to the Top 8 as part of Team Kelly Clarkson and he’s giving this performance everything he has to stay in the competition. Just listen as he beautifully belts out these powerful lyrics.
“Go rest high on that mountain
Son, your work on earth is done.
Go to heaven a-shoutin'
Love for the Father and the Son.”
Rod plays guitar as he puts his own style into this country tune. He truly puts all of his heart into his music and you can feel the passion as he performs. There’s definitely a reason why Rod has made it this far and he certainly has the talent to go all the way. Rod is the last remaining contestant on Team Kelly.
Do you think he’s going to win The Voice?
The Voice contestant Gyth Rigdon performs a soul-stirring rendition of ‘God Bless The USA’ during the semi-finals of the competition.
Gyth is a member of Team Blake and he’s been impressing the crowds all season long. Today, he’s taking an American classic and putting his own, personal touch on the iconic song.
‘And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I'd gladly stand up next to you
And defend Her still today
'Cause there ain't no doubt
I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.’
‘God Bless The USA’ was originally released in 1984 by Lee Greenwood. He always felt the urge to write a patriotic song and when the shooting down of Korean Air Lines Flight 007 occurred, Lee knew the time was right to unite the nation.
It rose on the country charts, but it wasn’t until the attacks on September 11th that the song became a cultural phenomenon. It doesn’t get much better than listening to someone sing about their pride for their country and that’s exactly what Gyth is doing today.
It’s always such an amazing display of respect and patriotism. This is definitely one of the most iconic patriotic songs of the modern era and it was a perfect compliment to Gyth’s incredible vocals. He is definitely a serious contender.
Do you think this young man has what it takes to go all the way?
Today Show anchor Hoda Kotb shares an honest conversation she had with God that changed her perspective on motherhood.
In February of 2017, Hoda adopted a baby girl named Haley Joy. Since that time, this beloved host has learned a lot about the ups and downs of motherhood. Today, she’s sitting down with co-anchor Savannah Guthrie to discuss what they’ve learned so far on this journey of parenthood.
Hoda isn’t afraid to admit that she lacks patience. There was a particular moment when everything from the day started to overwhelm Hoda. “I remember having a short conversation with God and I remember saying, ‘I would’ve begged you for this day. This terrible day, I would’ve begged on my knees for.”
For years, Hoda dreamed of having a family of her own and she was finally bringing that vision to life. This moment was the reminder that she needed from God that she was exactly where she wanted and needed to be. We learn from our children every single day. Their innocent nature and view of the world truly gives us a different perspective.
Hoda remarked on some of the things that she has learned from Haley Joy. “I think she’s taught me patience and she’s taught me that no dream’s too big. If you believe in something, it may actually come through.” Our children are truly a gift from God and they are a blessing that should be cherished and protected. Do you have any advice for other parents out there?
A talented teen with autism is belting out the lyrics to ‘A Million Dreams’ during a concert performance.
This popular song is from the musical sensation, The Greatest Showman. The film was released in 2017 and starred Hugh Jackman and Michelle Williams. The award-winning movie told the story behind P.T. Barnum and how this showman created the Barnum & Bailey Circus. The music featured in the film because an instant classic. One of the most popular tunes is ‘A Million Dreams.’
The main characters, of P.T. Barnum and his wife, sing these beautiful words about chasing your dreams.
“'Cause every night I lie in bed
The brightest colors fill my head
A million dreams are keeping me awake
I think of what the world could be
A vision of the one I see
A million dreams is all it's gonna take
A million dreams for the world we're gonna make”
Today, Tommy is stepping up to the microphone for his very first solo. This young man was obviously excited to take on this iconic song and show off his vocal talent. Just listen as he passionately leads the choir in this inspiring show tune. Just like the message from the movie, Tommy is showing that nothing can hold you back from your dreams.
If you have a vision and a dream in your heart, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish. What a perfect voice to sing the lyrics of this motivating and inspiring song. Who else is cheering for Tommy?
This is my testimony of how I was healed from rheumatoid arthritis. I had rheumatoid arthritis from 2011-2017 on and off. I was healed for a year from 2011-2012 and then the illness came back into my right elbow and left wrist. I am left handed, so this illness affected my ability to carry groceries, comb my hair, and at one point even walk/run. My left knee was beyond swollen.
Jeopardy host Alex Trebek speaks out on the difficulties of his current battle with cancer and how he’s staying positive.
In March of 2019, beloved television personality Alex Trebek announced to the world that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. But he pledged to continue hosting Jeopardy and mustering up all of his strength to defeat the grim diagnosis.
The 78-year-old is inspiring viewers by opening up about the realities of cancer and the treatment he is undergoing. Alex hopes to create a dialogue about pancreatic cancer and he’s received an outpouring of support. Despite remaining optimistic, the after effects of chemotherapy are still taking the toll.
Alex recently sat down with Jane Pauley on CBS Sunday Morning and opened up about the crippling pain he’s experienced while taping Jeopardy. “It got really bad. I was on the floor, writhing in pain. I went from a 3 to an 11. It happened about 3 or 4 times while we were taping, so that was a little rough on me.”
But Alex kept his demeanor while the camera was rolling. “I taped the show and then I made it to the dressing room on one occasion, just barely, before I writhed in pain and cried in pain. I had 15 minutes before the next show, so I got myself together.”
Behind the scenes at Jeopardy, everyone is there to support Alex, but he refuses to give in to the cancer. “The producers were very kind. They said ‘Look, if you don’t want to do the show, we’ll just cancel taping.’ And I said, ‘No, we’re here. We’re doing the shows.’”
Alex Trebek is truly a legendary name in the entertainment business and his announcement of cancer shocked many people. But his positive attitude and determination has truly made the biggest impact on the world. We all continue to pray for Mr. Trebek as he battles this devastating disease.
You gotta have that dog to stay the course...so you better get it! And don't worry, when Jesus shows up in your life, He will have enough light for the both of you. You just dare to stand!
The owner of a convenience store has compassion on a hungry teen and gives him food after he catches him shoplifting.
At first, the owner of the 7/11, Jay, notices some suspicious activity on his store’s surveillance camera. Jay sees a teenage boy taking something off the shelf and going to a corner of the store.
When he comes back to the front of the store, there is nothing in his hand. Jay sees from the footage that the teenager had put some items into his pockets.
“First of all, I was upset,” Jay says. “I was angry because if somebody is stealing, it feels like he’s taking money from my pocket.”
When Jay confronted the teen, he asked him to empty the contents of his pockets and place them on the counter. The items that he pulled out were mostly junk food like chips and candy.
Jay asked the teen why he was doing this, and his answer made him have a change of heart.
“He said, ‘I am hungry. I’m stealing it for myself and my younger brother,’” explains Jay. “When he said, ‘I’m hungry,’ the whole thing changed, my whole perception changed. This is not a regular shoplifter, a regular shoplifting incident. It is something different.”
Jay’s anger quickly turned to sympathy, and knew he needed to help this young man. “I said, ‘If you’re hungry, I’ll give you food. Don’t try to steal these candies and gum and junk items. You’re not going to fulfill your hunger with that. That’s useless.’”
After Jay’s conversation with the teen, he gave him some sandwiches and other hot food to eat. And the reason behind his decision to show grace toward the young man is inspiring.
“I thought, ‘Okay, he did something wrong. At least give him another chance,’” he says. “Maybe he will do it right next time. Show him what is right, what is wrong. And I hope he learns that.”
What a beautiful act of kindness that will be sure to impact that young man!
A cappella ensemble 7th Ave perform a beautiful rendition of ‘Yesterday’ from The Beatles.
It was written by Paul McCartney for the band’s ‘HELP!’ album. It became an instant hit, reaching the number one spot on multiple music charts and lists. Over the years, this song has become an icon for the legendary group and the lyrics have truly stood the test of time.
“Yesterday
All my troubles seemed so far away
Now it looks as though they're here to stay
Oh, I believe in yesterday”
Today, the talented performing group of 7th Ave is putting their own spin on this classic tune and it is absolutely stunning. 7th Ave was founded by viral sensation Chris Rupp.
Chris was a former member of the popular all-male a cappella group Home Free. Now, he has brought together a group of powerhouse vocals and they continue to create incredible arrangements. ‘Yesterday’ is a song that we all know and love, but when you hear this a cappella rendition it changes the entire feel. Just listen as these 4 voices belt out the infamous words.
“Suddenly
I'm not half the man I used to be
There's a shadow hanging over me
Oh, yesterday came suddenly”
Time and time again, 7th Ave impress with their selection of songs and beautifully blended vocals. Performing a cappella is not an easy task, but this group makes it look like ease. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what this ensemble does next! What did you think of this ‘Yesterday’ cover?
This songs depicts two individuals who were separated at one point out of a misunderstanding but now face persecution for their faith.Now back against the wall they discover they were meant for one another and they go out with a smile and love in their hearts for one another
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