Why so Optimistic?

A short answer:
There tens of thousands of individual volunteers in communities big and small who conduct thousands of service projects each year, serving millions (young and old) to make the world a better place. The investment is in hours and dollars, annually and the generosity is staggering. It is something, of which, we should all want to be a part. Together we can accomplish so much.
A longer answer (and mostly opinion):
The longer answer could very well involve a lot of anecdotal stories that help illustrate the goodness that comes from even the seemingly small acts of kindness. George Bailey, played by Jimmy Stewart in the classic movie It’s a Wonderful Life is a illustration of the impact one person can have on so many others. He’s a great character who finds himself in a depressed state over a setback involving the financial institution he runs in the small town of Bedford Falls. Lucky for George, Clarence the Guardian Angel helps him see what an impact he’s truly had on his friends, family and neighbors. The movie is a holiday classic, but I invite you to view it any time of the year if you need a reason to reach out to people in need (Children in particular).
Life is not always easy. Interestingly, the impact we can all have is harder to see when all is well and there is no adversity. It’s when the going gets tough, and we face challenges (sometimes against impossible odds) that it becomes abundantly clear just how beautiful and precious life can be. Everybody needs help, some more than others. To borrow from a popular song: People who have people are the luckiest people in the world.
The glass is not half empty. There is light at the end of the tunnel. It’s always darkest just before dawn. Every dark cloud has a silver lining. Yikes, these clichés are repeated so often you got to hope they don’t lose their intent and become empty sentiments. People want to be optimistic. It’s so very important not to forget why. We need to believe in the power of action, in deeds. They speak so much louder than words. Words are so completely inadequate to express what every Optimist knows in his or her heart. Thank You.