Saturday, November 15, 2008

Why Am I Optimistic?

When people ask me how I am doing, I like to answer, “If I were any better it would be illegal.” Today I spoke to a dear friend who expressed great concern for our country and the world, feeling that there were so many problems it was overwhelming. As I pondered on this conversation, I thought I should write this, because it is REALLY the way I feel.

Why am I so optimistic?

I am optimistic because our nation overcame racial intolerance by electing an African American to be our President. While I share in the tears of so many of our African American brothers and sisters in the relief that this election has provided and the hope that our country can finally set aside the separations of the past, I also realize that vestiges of intolerance will remain for a long time to come. AND I must say that while I am grateful for this HUGE hurdle to have been overcome, I am concerned and hope and pray that Barack Obama will set his liberal roots aside and govern our nation from a more moderate position, that he will seek guidance from on high, and will listen to the wisdom of folks who disagree with him.

I am optimistic because the men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line in our military, law enforcement and protection services care about our country and about democracy. They serve with honor and distinction, and give me hope for a brighter future.

I am optimistic because although our government made some huge blunders leading to this financial crisis we find ourselves in, the best people in finance and markets are working hard to correct these mistakes. There are sharp differences of opinions, but they are taking action, looking for solutions, being flexible in their responses, and demonstrating to me that they are doing their best to put things right.

I am optimistic because I have worked with teens for many years as a Scout leader and soccer coach. I see in the rising generation enthusiasm, morality, concern for their fellow beings, dedication to service, and love of country.

I am optimistic because there are so many good people in our great nation. Good people who opposed Proposition 8 because the believed it was not fair. Good people who supported Proposition 8 because they believed it was important for our children and our freedoms. Most were not motivated by hatred or intolerance, but by love of their fellow man and love of country.

I am optimistic because I believe that our elected officials have learned some hard lessons, and I have hope that they will be more willing and able to stick to their principles and not be blown about by the wind.

I am optimistic because the sun still shines, the birds still sing, the ocean is still blue and when spring comes, the hills will be covered in flowers. In my half century I have learned that life goes on, there are cycles, there are tragedies, there is evil in the world. But spring always comes, hope overcomes, and good always triumphs in the end.

I am optimistic because I see in my children’s eyes the hope of better things to come, the faith in a Power greater than their own, the desire to do right, the determination to try.

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