As we start a new administrative year for Optimist International, it is a good time to restate the goals of this website and its sister website at experienceoptimism.com.
The pnwdistrictoptimist.com and experienceoptimism.com websites exist to help publicize the good work of Optimist Clubs and Optimist Club members in the Pacific Northwest and around the world; illustrate and advise best practices in program and membership development; and to expand the reach of Optimist International, its mission, vision, and purposes through the creation of new Optimist Clubs.
As is often advised in its stories, the authors try to utilize optimism in their approach; however, when we work only for the best, we must sometimes point out or highlight negative environments in order to improve upon them. When this occurs, it is meant to provoke discussion of ideas and not to criticize individuals. We belong to this organization in order to improve lives; not to to tear them down. We expect the same from others.
Recently The New York Times Magazine ran a full page about truth. It said:
The truth is hard.
The truth is hidden.
The truth must be pursued.
The truth is hard to hear.
The truth is rarely simple.
The truth isn’t so obvious.
The truth can’t be glossed over.
The truth has no agenda.
The truth can’t be manufactured.
The truth doesn’t take sides.
The truth isn’t red or blue.
The truth is hard to accept.
The truth pulls no punches.
The truth is powerful.
The truth is under attack.
The truth is worth defending.
The truth requires taking a stand.
The truth is more important now than ever.
We are living in a politically charged and divisive world fueled by those who are quick to call something with which they disagree as fake or trash.
We humbly ask that our readers seek the bigger picture and begin to work together to bring out the best in youth, community, and ourselves.
In other words, readers, if the truth hurts, don't lay blame on the person who pointed out the truth; work together to fix it. Be #optimiststrong - make a difference. Make this world a better place in which to live.
If you would like to discuss this post or this website, provide a story, or just say hi, please click here. Thank you.
If you would like to discuss this post or this website, provide a story, or just say hi, please click here. Thank you.