Optimism

Ingredients:

While scepticism is a form of self-protection, a habit of not making assumptions and realizing that things are not always what they seem, pessimism is assuming the worst, putting undue emphasis on the negative aspects of any situation. It can lead you to miss opportunities and be an escapist from problems when your actions could make a difference in resolving or improving a situation. Optimists on the other hand persevere in darkness, knowing that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, but they also pause to reflect and learn from their difficulties, so their suffering leads to healing, what they lose makes space for new growth, and they are creative in harnessing circumstances to their advantage. In short, they have a can-do attitude that is unwavering combined with a wise imagination. “I shall not cease from mental fight, / Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand, / Till we have built Jerusalem, / In England’s green and pleasant land.” (William Blake, Jerusalem)

Directions:

It’s not what happens to you that matters but how you react to it. Take responsibility for whatever comes your way. But avoid negative people, feelings, habits and mind-entertainments where possible because these are superficial adversaries and not true challenges of the spirit. Let go of negative assumptions and beliefs. Do not limit yourself either in the depth or the breadth of your potential. Great things are possible with right effort and attitude. The past is not the future. You are the cause of your reality, not a consequence. Be the change you want to see in the world. When faced with a choice between two conflicting desires, it need not be a case of either/or… look for the third way that accommodates both. Do not make false sacrifices.

Set goals. Use negative experiences and positive experiences alike as character-building opportunities to help you make better decisions in future and better know yourself. Tension is necessary for growth, like a plant breaking through its shell and reaching for the light as it was destined to do, or the example of some trees that produce more fruit after a summer under stress lacking water. If you bring forth what is within you, what you bring forth will save you. Be flexible but strong in the face of obstacles and make progress step by step through the power of creativity as well as cumulative effort, balancing the long-term vision with the gathering force of the day-to-day. The point of tension is not in the past or the future, but in the now, so let go of worries, fears and wants, leaving your heart as light as a feather. Looking happy creates a happy self-image, and the belief in yourself is self-fulfilling.

Use positive affirmations and quotations to cement your can-do attitude. Remember life is short and brooding breeds indecision and wastes time. When it is time to act, act with courage and love. When it is time to rest and gather the force, rest with courage and love. Never stop learning. Teach others and see how the perspective this gives bypasses the ego’s defences. Teach yourself as if you are another. Be grateful. Spread the joy. Be compassionate to all without judging or expecting something in return. “Curse not the dark, but bring the light. For God did send help. God sent you.” (Joann Davis, The Book of the Shepherd)