A good backstory is everything. It provides context and adds color to a story, explaining why something is significant or worth paying attention to when otherwise, we'd be more likely to just scan it and move along, possibly missing out on something genuinely cool.
The following pics might be good with no backstory. But with a backstory? They're that much better.
It's always fascinating how examples of humanity at its worst, like Russia invading Ukraine, often lead to stories of humanity at its best.
Whether you're a maple syrup person or not (and really, who isn't?), this is an impressive sight to see. I really want to try that smoky maple syrup. And think of all the work that went into those bottles — it takes 40 gallons of sap to make a single gallon of syrup!
How could a parishioner not adopt one of these puppers after seeing how sweet they are at the priest's sermon?
Do you ever see something that's beautiful, but undeniably heartbreaking? Yeah, I think this card fits into the category.
It's so touching to see how a pro sports team can take notice of their lifelong supporters, always in the stands, and honor them when they've gone.
Tampons and pads should be a universal right. While some institutions have started giving them away for free, there's still a gap. Initiatives like this help bridge that gap.
Anyone who's ever really loved a pet knows exactly why these dog owners did this. It might be a lot of work, but anything is worth it for our furry companions.
New York has a reputation for being, well, a tad aggressive. That reputation comes from somewhere, of course, but it hardly tells the whole story.
It would be nice if more restaurants did this. Not only is it the decent thing to do, it's a good way to win over potential paying customers.
This letter is truly touching. I'm betting this pet owner had no idea how much of a difference it would make to this person's life.
When you're a kid, a year feels like it takes eons. Considering these kids have been separated for four long years, this is a reunion that's long overdue.
If you're going to give something to someone from Mythbusters, you'd better give them something good. I'd say this fan delivered, and then some.
We've seen touching, we've seen heartbreaking, and now it's time to see hilarious. Furries are...polarizing, let's say, but it was good of them to pose with this woman.
There's no telling what an overactive imagination can conjure up in a small kid. Today, it's...pretending to be pepperoni on a big slice of pizza.
You really have to appreciate how grandma went the extra mile by cutting the foam into perfectly strawberry-shaped inserts to prevent the berries from getting jostled around.
Canada geese are ornery birds, but this one is being treated well in its time of need.
This could come off as creepy, but let's give Mr. Jones credit. He didn't know, and judging by his reaction, he wouldn't have done it had he known.
I love this. Those shelters are inexpensive and probably simple to put up, but they'll make a big difference when it comes to giving these poor pups shelter from the storm.
While it's upsetting to know that these cats dealt with the stress of a fire, it's lovely to see how well they're being cared for.
Graves can easily become overgrown and forgotten, so seeing gestures like this — gestures that help keep a memory alive — really warms the heart.
