I've felt like I was basking in bliss the past couple of weeks while in Italy on an engaging exchange program, but then yesterday a downpour of upsetting news from home suddenly drenched me and doused out that happiness. Nothing could really elevate my high spirits back to where they were, but I felt a glimmer of warmth and comfort when one of my favorite songs of all time began to play at the cafe I wandered into this morning. It's not a widely-played song, so it was a friendly surprise to hear it here. The song is "Silver Lining" by Rilo Kiley, and it really did feel like rays of sunshine poking out through gray skies to bring me some joy.

What songs have the ability to give you a little cheer when you're feeling blue? Have you ever been in a situation like this when something like a song, piece of art, sign or whatever gave you a small surge of unexpected hope and happiness?