Questions from the Optimist Creed

It was over 100 years ago that Christian D. Larson wrote The Optimist Creed. Is it still relevant today? Do you know people who could use some optimism? Perhaps the question should be asked this way: as we struggle through the pandemic, the racial unrest and the economic challenges, could you use a shot of optimism? Could positive responses to these questions make your day better? or enhance the lives of others you know?

Are you strong enough that nothing can disturb your peace of mind? Would you like to be?

Do you talk of health, happiness and prosperity with everyone you meet? Would you like being in the company of someone who does?

Do you make all your friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them?

Do you look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true?

Have you tried to think only of the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best?

Are you as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own?

Can you forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater the achievements of the future?

Would you like to be around people who wear a cheerful expression at all times and smile at every living creature they meet?

Do you spend so much time trying to improve yourself that you have no time to criticize others?

Are you too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble?

Do you think well of yourself and proclaim this fact to the world, not in loud word, but in great deeds.

Do you live in faith that the whole word is on your side, as long as you are true to the best that is in you.

Do you know anyone who could measure up to all the tenets of the Optimist Creed? Do you think there are many on the planet who could? Would you like to embrace more of this philosophy into your own life? Would you benefit from being around people who do?

Asking these questions from the Optimist Creed raises more questions. Instead of just repeating quotes should we ask questions? Are you in agreement with the statements? Are the tenets worthy of self reflection?

Are questions more valuable than answers?