Category Archives: Quotes

I came across an old book of poetry entitled Homespun, by Wilhelmina Stitch. It was published in 1930, the price – one shilling net. The language is formal, but very interesting to read. Here is one that caught my eye—an uplifting poem.

The True Optimist

He’s not an optimist because he found

all wheels oiled within the daily round;

his life was not an ordered, easy thing,

with ne’er a pin to prick or lash to sting.

But when to him discouragements drew near

he found the lamp of hope to banish fear.

However steep the hill, yet would he climb,

saying with smiles: “The peak is mine in time.”

And though he walked along a humble street,

yet would he say, “Life’s kernel is still sweet,

and though I’m poor I’m rich in friendship’s gold,

and I have much that can’t be bought or sold.

The weather’s bad today, better tomorrow;

and I’ll know joy again after this sorrow.”

He didn’t shut his eyes and call all fair.

He faced the murk and saw stars shining there.

Said he, “There’s joy and grief and sun and shade;

there’s balm and pain; and rough and smooth the grade;

so I will travel on, star-led, sun-kissed,

trusting in God—a thinking optimist.”

This little poem is different from today’s offerings. It’s about someone who walks an ordinary road, with the same difficulties and setbacks we all face. And it’s encouraging to read. What do you do when you get discouraged?