In case you haven't heard, the federal government officially shut down on Monday and will remain closed until Congress can come to a consensus on President Obama's healthcare law.
It's pretty easy to lose faith in the country when something like this happens. But, as always, Americans are rallying. Here are four kick-ass responses to the shutdown to remind you just how awesome this country can be.
1. World War II vets have refused to stand down.
A few signs and barriers were no match for a group of vets, who stormed the National Mall on Tuesday to pay their respects at the WWII memorial.
Then, more veterans showed up on Wednesday morning -- and sang 'Amazing Grace' together.
2. Businesses in Washington are prioritizing helping others over making money.
Fast-food chain Z-Burger is offering furloughed federal employees free hamburgers.
IF #GovernmentShutdown #FREE #Burgers AtTenley,SW,ColHgts&Arl forGov&DC #Furlough WorkersEveryday11a-1p&5-7ptillOpens1/PersonW\ID #shutdown
— Z-Burger (@zburger) September 30, 2013
AMC is dishing out free popcorn at movie theaters -- until they run out, of course.
And Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe had a nice little surprise for Congresspeople -- since they're still getting paid during the shutdown.
If you live in D.C., here's Washington City Paper's lengthy list of government shutdown "specials."
3. The New York Daily News showed no fear with its Monday cover.
Or with its Tuesday cover, for that matter.
4. Congress members -- from both parties -- said "No way," to receiving their paychecks while 800,000 furloughed government workers do not. And a few decided to do some good with the money.
Democrat Sherrod Brown of Ohio, for example, is supporting the Honor Flight Network, a program that flies WWII veterans to D.C. to visit the memorial, with his salary.
Republican Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, meanwhile, took to YouTube to say that he's donating his pay to the Wounded Warrior Project, which assists injured service members.
Here's the Washington Post's complete list of lawmakers who are waiving or donating their salaries while the shutdown continues.
Bonus! The KKK rally at the Gettysburg National Military Park this weekend was cancelled.
Which is, you know, always good.