Sure, the Internet is a haven for hate speech, vitriolic bile and cruel words typed absentmindedly as if they mean nothing. But it can also spread a lot of joy, with videos of the world’s compassion going just as viral as ones about falling down stairs or making fools of each other.
As 2014 draws to a close and Christmas approaches, we celebrate all that was good about humans on the Internet this year with the 14 most touching viral videos of the year.
While the videos are presented in no particular order, you might need to have a tissue at the ready...
Animal shelter rescues dog that fell into tar pit
Just look at that picture. The dog is so encased in tar and dirt that it looks like a recovery is impossible. A passerby saw the poor creature lying on the ground, called a helpline, and three-hours later the dog was back wagging its tail.
Father sings 'Blackbird' to his dying new-born son
Tragedy surrounds this story, as the boy's mother had passed away in her sleep shortly after giving birth. The video is truly one of the most heartbreaking of the last 12 months.
A tribute to Robin Williams
The brilliant comic actor is remembered doing what he did best - captivating audiences with his incredible charisma.
Hero Cat
While there are plenty of videos of cats on the Internet, this one redeems all those videos of cats doing selfish and terrible things. Cometh the hour, cometh the cat.
Joan Rivers on what it means to be a comedian
Another comic genius we lost this year, Rivers' guest appearance on the HBO sitcom 'Louie' became a viral tribute to the comedienne who loved to shock.
Gerry Collins' last anti-smoking video
Released after Gerry had lost his battle with lung cancer, these HSE videos are a tragic reminder of the dangers of cigarettes.
Deaf woman hears for the first time
Joanne Milne suffered from a rare disease that affected her hearing and sight, but after receiving a special implant, she got to hear for the first time ever at the age of 40.
Kids teach adults about body image
The filmmakers asked 50 people one question: if you could change one thing about your body, what would it be?
The dog with 3D-printed limbs learns to run
To quote one seasoned Newstalk reporter, "Run, Forrest, run!"
Girl with cancer shows us anyone can be brave
"If you have cancer, don't worry. Because I am brave and you can be brave also."
Irishman asks his mammy for a cup of scald
We've all seen surprise visits for Christmas. And we've all seen Irish mammies welling up. And this one is 2014's best.
The woman who chose to end her own life
Brittany Murphy was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer just months after getting married and trying to start a family. And she made the choice to end her own life. Her story touched millions around the world.
Mother with Alzheimer's recognises her daughter
Kelly Gunderson's mother suffers from Alzheimer's and often doesn't know who she is. But in this video she recognises her daughter, and tells her that she loves her.
Dog passes out from happiness
Casey gets reunited with her owner Rebecca after two years, and gets a little bit overwhelmed - though the family reassures that the dog made a full recovery.
