This is true not only for individuals but for nations and for the whole world. First of all, suffering is a purgative. It turns the soul inside out and forces the re-examination of old values and the addition of new ones. But the pessimist will never reap the benefits of difficulty. Only the optimist will be able to recognize and accept the value of pain and upheaval to the fullness of personality and the development of civilization.
Optimism is, in part, the ability to compromise with the facts of life.
Life should never be taken too seriously. We must be able to laugh at our troubles and to withstand our griefs. We must be able to see the whole picture and, while recognizing the faults, be encouraged by the good qualities. And most of all, we must be willing to give and give and give in a self-forgetfulness which will make every gift back to us doubly appreciated. In fact, optimism has no value at all if it is not translated into practice.