realistic vs optimistic

1st off, you couldn't pay me enough to be pessimistic.  it is not a valuable way to think.  daily life is miserable.  who wants to be miserable?  i find some people don't know any other way to see things.  i wish i could change their minds.  i've tried.  it's futile.  i think pessimists think i'm 'cute' or naive.

i am forever an optimist.  i look for the silver lining in every situation.  in awful situations, like death and destruction, i can only say that those things should help us feel grateful for everything or anything else good in our lives.

i am questioning realism vs optimism.  when does optimism get in the way of being realistic?  does my belief in miracles prevent me from seeing the truth right in front of me?

yes, my MS has gotten worse over the last 19 years.  statistics say it will continue to get worse.  that does not mean it MUST get worse.  i hope the worsening will stop.  i hope that my symptoms improve.  i even hope a miracle will occur and my body will function like an average 42-year-old.

i live with reality.  i learn to do things a new way when i lose another ability.  i even try to prepare for the bad things that COULD happen.  the true realists in my life help me to be prepared.

so, i will continue to be optimistic tempered by realism.  hope keeps me from being depressed about the future.  finding the good in each moment makes life enjoyable.  i believe life is meant to be enjoyed. 

i'm sending out positive thoughts that all of us feel a little optimistic every day!