Just like the duality of the universe, 2016 was a series of gutter balls and strikes. Here is a line-up of the best viral things that happened in 2016 that will give you warm and fuzzy feelings as we head into 2017:

People are finally getting out of their parent’s basement and back into the world where they actually meet people IRL. In an era of Facebook and Instagram, the app was a breath of fresh air that sparked the trend of location-based reality technology. Despite the mixed reviews, it quickly became an international phenomenon and was the most used and profitable app in 2016 with 500 million downloads worldwide.

2. Chewbacca Mom

The Chewbacca Mom viral video was one of those moments that gave life to 2016 – literally a mom who put on a rubber Chewbacca mask from Kohl’s and filmed herself laughing uproariously – and it garnered a respectable 700 million views. 

3. Man Punches Kangaroo to Save Dog

While late to the party, this viral video gained instant fame as it reverberated across the Internet. The brief video clip features an Australian man leaping to action with a quick left hook to save his dog from the death-grip of a vicious kangaroo. It might have a cute outfit with a built-in pouch, but don’t underestimate its wild side.

4. T-Rex Takes On American Ninja Warrior

The prehistoric community should be proud, as one of their own takes on the difficult American Ninja Warrior course. Did T-Rex’s short arm span hinder his ability to complete the course? Find out for yourself here.

5. The #MannequinChallenge

The Mannequin Challenge might leave some viewers wondering what the heck is going on.  This challenge involves filming a group of people holding various poses like a mannequin and usually set to the song “Black Beetles” by Rae Sremmurd. These outrageous scenes look as if they are frozen in time. The challenge has spread to professional athletes, politicians, and celebrities alike.

6. Grace VanderWaal

When 12-year-old Grace VanderWaal takes the stage with her ukulele, she instantly takes us away to a place of raw innocence and pure emotion with her whimsical lyrics and fearless voice. Unpretentious and adorable, this musical genius won the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent.

7. Zombie Apocalypse Prank

 After their younger sister had her wisdom teeth removed, two brothers decided to pull an epic prank on their drug-induced sister. With the help of their friends, family, and dentist they convinced her of an impending zombie apocalypse.

2016 had some serious moments, but through it all, life’s more humorous and heartwarming moments always shine through to give us a glimmer of hope and optimism. In a world of good versus evil, it’s time to choose your destiny.