Why I'm am Optimist

I have been criticized at times for being a little too Pollyanna in my outlook on life. I am the eternal optimist. I believe that things will be better tomorrow than they are today and regardless of how bad things get, there is always some good to draw from the bumps and bruises of life.

WHY, when the world is so messed up, when our government is out of control, when our economy is in the toilet, would I choose to put a positive spin on things. You may be thinking, "is he so naive that he doesn't see all the crime, violence and attrocities being perpetratred in the world?" Why would you choose to be an optimist in the midst of all of this.

1. Because God is in control. He may weave shades of darkness and light into the tapestry of my existence, but He sees the beauty and splendor of the pattern when He is finished with me (Romans 8:28). I trust that he will safely guide me through the valle of the shadow of death.
2. Because I am happier because of it. It may be naive. You can call me clueless, but most days I am pretty content with my life. It ain't perfect, but its pretty good. I have it better than most of the folks on this planet. I have plenty of stuff (more than I will ever need), lots and lots of food, a good job, great friends, a loving church, an amazing family. So which is better really, to be thankful for all that, or complain and moan because someone took my parking spot at the mall - I just don't get some people.
3. Because happiness is a choice. None of our lives are perfect. I have watched cancer victims slip quietly into eternity whose optimism and positive attitude was an inspiration. I have seen others with every possible advantage, grumble, complain and whine about some stupid, silly matter that robs them not only of their happiness, but any joy their "stuff" might have brought them.

So, you can criticize me, laugh at my foolish and naive approach to life - that's alright! I am still choosing happiness over sorry, optimism over pessimism and trust in God over the discouragement of men. Honest Abe was right, "Most people are about as happy as they make up their mind to be."