A Month -- a Lifetime -- in View

I love National Geographic’s Daily News for a quick snapshot of the health and heart of our planet. At a time when we can be given so much news that is both conflicting and disheartening, National Geographic’s concerned but mostly non-political take can be refreshing. And one thing I really enjoy: it often gives me a smile along with a dose of new information. Not many news agencies can say that!

Their “Best of” photo collections are a great way to get a fast view of the planet and a few of those smiles. Here the “Best of January” begins with a trio of penguins admiring a plush toy in their image. It’s a gorgeous shot and a great thought: “The composition of this image reinforces what to me is its main point,” says Monica Corcoran, senior National Geographic photo editor, “communication. The ‘talking heads’ are not sure what to make of this oddly familiar intruder.”

Thanks, National Geographic, for once again reminding us that there is so much still to smile at in the world -- so much to lift our hearts and souls and refresh for all the work we still need to do to ensure these many wonders continue.