The optimist knows the sun shines,
Above the clouds, though gray,
The pessimist sees the dark side
Of a gloomy cold winter’s day.

The optimist says “keep on going.
don’t give up when troubles annoy”.
The pessimist thinks “what’s the use,
life’s dull and holds little joy”.

The optimist is always thankful,
For the blessings of each day.
The pessimist keeps complaining
Of things that come his way.

The optimist and the pessimist,
Are opposites to the extreme;
While one sees opportunities,
The other only a broken dream.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist,
Do you see mud not the stars?
Like the two men in prison,
Looking out through prison bars.

Choose to become an optimist,
The negative thoughts cast out,
Replace them with positive ones,
Then life will be better, no doubt.

by Vivien Wade