I had breakfast at a place in Ventura by the harbor and this banner with "The Optomist's Creed" was hanging on the wall next to the table. I know I'm a little jaded because I thought it was a joke. Also, I looked around for posters of kittens hanging from trees but found none. Optomist International? Really? My orange juice glass was obviously only half-full, plus the coffee was weak (but don't get me started on weak coffee). It turns out that there's really an Optomist International; it's a non-profit that's been around for almost 100 years that has optomist clubs for kids to help them feel good and reach their potential etc. etc. Here is the creed, which isn't so clear in the photo. (Warning: it's so feel-good that your teeth might ache a little while you read it. But I can't help but be fascinated.)
Promise Yourself-
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
