As a professional collector of online Content, I feel like I’ve seen it all when it comes to memes and their themes. I’ve lived through old-school rage comics, ironic memes, and post-ironic deconstructions of memes. I’ve observed people make punchlines out of their depression, and try and outdo each other with edginess until they tip into prejudiced territory. It feels like I’ve witnessed memes about almost every topic under the sun — but the ones I always come back to are those that make me feel good.

For me, this doesn’t always mean wholesome memes. That said, it can’t be denied that they are what many meme lovers would drift towards if they’re in the market for a pick-me-up. Not only do they deal with the highlight reel of our varied human experience, they want us to come along for the ride. No wonder they continue to be so popular with everybody.