Optimism Overcomes Obstacles. Wisdom Quotes Illustrated 3 Philip G. Schmitz Published by Philip G. Schmitz Copyright © 2017 by Philip G. Schmitz All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, contact the author at www.fullyhereandnow.com/contact/. Book design: Jesse Gordon Cover design: Suneel Paul Cover image: “Jump for Joy” by Phil Price is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. ISBN: 978-0-9973658-2-5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction Optimism Obstacles and barriers So long for now! Disclaimer
Introduction
If you’re reading this book, you either know the power of optimism or you would like to learn more about it. Perhaps optimism served you well as you overcame obstacles in life, and you’re just here for a “refresher.” Perhaps a friend or loved one is experiencing difficulties and would benefit by maintaining a positive perspective: you’d like to offer comfort and support. Positive thinking underpins all great achievement. Those who have made pre-eminent contributions to mankind’s welfare could not have done so without their optimism. This book compiles and illustrates the thoughts and insights of many such outstanding souls. I hope their words encourage and inspire you. Optimism is the stay of a healthy and successful life. Not only is it a sign of a healthy emotional life, a positive state of mind actually enhances your physical heath, too. May I make a suggestion? Keep this book on your smart phone and sneak a peek whenever you need a lift. In any event, here’s hoping you enjoy the read and profit from it for a long time to come. Connecticut, USA January 30, 2017 “Everybody avoids the company of those” . . . is by Orison Swett Marden. The quote has been modified. All rights reserved.
Optimism
Optimism is a strategy for making a better future. Because unless you believe that the future can be better, you are unlikely to step up and take responsibility for making it so. Noam Chomsky It will never rain roses: when we want to have more roses, we must plant more roses. George Eliot
The true way to live is to enjoy every moment as it passes, and surely it is in the everyday things around us that the beauty of life lies. Laura Ingalls Wilder Cleave ever to the sunnier side of doubt. Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Resolve to see the world on the sunny side and you have almost won the battle at the outset. Roger L'Estrange Always laugh when you can; it is cheap medicine. Merriment is a philosophy not well understood. It is the sunny side of existence. Lord Byron A sunny disposition is worth more than fortune. Young people should know that it can be cultivated; that the mind like the body can be moved from the shade into sunshine. Andrew Carnegie
There is little difference in people, but that little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude. The big difference is whether it is positive or negative. W. Clement Stone If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Maya Angelou A happy person is not a person in a certain set of circumstances, but rather a person with a certain set of attitudes. Hugh Downs
Book 4 is in the works! I plan to release it by March 30, 2017. If you’d like to be among the first to know, please subscribe to my Quote Lovers list. I will occasionally send you one of the quotes I’m working on—just to stay in touch in the meantime. You can also find me in many of the old familiar places online: Here’s my blog, and then there’s Google+, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Disclaimer The author does not claim credit for any of the texts presented, other than those he has written. If you are an author or an artist whose work has been featured, and you would like your work to be removed, contact the author who will comply with your request promptly. Please view this book as a declaration of respect for the wisdom others have gathered, often at great cost. I admire the ability to express ideas succinctly. Although I have searched the Web to identify the sources of the quotes included, my efforts haven’t always yielded results. This book is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of physicians. The readers should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to their health and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.