Friends tell me they don’t watch the news anymore because it’s too depressing. As a former journalist, that sentiment is depressing. An informed electorate is critical to a healthy democracy. I’ll descend from my soapbox and share a story guaranteed to lift your spirits.

Years ago, retired Col. Mark Maloney, an avid trail runner and cyclist, decided to “give back.” He bought materials for a stone bench, paid to have it engraved and had it installed atop one of his favorite high places — Lincoln Mountain Open Space just over the Douglas County border.

Maloney loved that bench and visited it regularly. Inscribed were the words “Rest, Relax, Enjoy” and this reminder: “You made it to this spot. Never forget those who cannot.”

Fast-forward to June 2020 when a bike accident on Pikes Peak Greenway turned the active octogenarian into a quadriplegic. To this day, Maloney has no idea what caused him to crash. He’s lucky to be alive. Undaunted, he’s worked tirelessly to regain mobility.

Modern tools gave him the ability to walk assisted. His dream was to return to the top of Lincoln Mountain and sit on his bench one more time. The irony of his inscription made him that much more determined.

A couple of weeks ago, the local chapter of a group known as Luke 5 came together and, along with Douglas County Open Space staff, helped Maloney ascend to his bench again. Using a uniquely designed chair atop one, rubber-tired wheel, they carried and rolled Maloney about 400 vertical feet over a rocky, 2-mile trail. With tears in his eyes, he thanked those who had made the moment possible and vowed to keep on inspiring others with disabilities to seek out opportunities.

Yes, there is plenty of bad news. But if we take the time to look for small and sometimes amazing acts of kindness occurring quietly around us, these are reasons to be hopeful.

Susan Davies is the executive director of the Trails and Open Space Coalition.

A pond adds to the diverse landscape at Lincoln Mountain Open Space near Larkspur. Photo courtesy: Douglas County