Editor's note: Optimism

Thinking optimistically can help us move forward and find the positives in life. (photo by Rakiyah Lenon)

By Rakiyah Lenon | Co-editor in chief

In fourth grade, I had the opportunity to read the novel Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter as part of my literature studies. In all wholeheartedness, seeing someone remain positive through her struggles makes for a great story.

However, today Pollyanna is often used to describe someone who is “blindly optimistic” as somewhat of an insult. The term “toxic positivity” has also grown in its mention in recent times. These words can appear like an odd match. Why is this so?

It is true that we must face reality. We cannot be blind to the issues that surround us. In fact, choosing to ignore the problems and struggles we face can lead to them spiraling out of control. However, mindset is something that has more power than we often realize.

I do not think that all people who sincerely choose to look at situations in an optimistic sense are trying to do harm. Trying to be positive often feels better than dwelling in pessimism.

Has negatively dwelling on a matter made us feel any better? I’m not speaking of grief. That’s another thing. I’m speaking of the choice to only see the negative. That answer could be different for everyone.

Throughout my life, I have always been encouraged to think positively. To look on the bright side of things. I believe that. I feel better choosing to be optimistic.

So I say this: acknowledge the reality. Is there something we can do to solve what we are going through? If there is, we can work on it. Maintaining a positive outlook could even help us along the way. If not, we can let it go and look at it in another sense.

That’s the power of optimism. It lets us know we can move forward, even though things in life seem as if they hold us back. We can see things another way.

Contact Rakiyah Lenon at rlenon@augusta.edu.

This story is published in the Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022 print edition of The Bell Ringer.