18 of 58 for 58: Optimism is the Only Choice

I don't know if these are the best of times, the worst of times, or somewhere in between. I don't care. I know only that they are my times--the only ones I will ever know.

That's why I feel optimism is my only choice. I have to believe things are getting better. I have to believe in possibilities. I have to believe in the inherent goodness of every person. I have to believe in redemption. In growth. In fulfilling our individual and collective potential for greatness. 

To believe otherwise would relegate my life to smallness, meanness, and pettiness. It would be like living in a room with the shades 3/4 of the way drawn. I'd peak out furtively to make sure no danger lurks from some unknown force on the horizon. Then again, the unknown by its very nature would be dangerous. As a result, I'd be left wallowing in a sea of anger, bitterness, frustration, and regret. I've nearly drowned in such places at different times in my life. 

That's why for me today the only choice is optimism.