Optimism is a mixture of pleasure (self) and usefulness (not-self). We recharge our own energy by the pleasure of discharging energy for others’ benefit. If we were more involved with each other (particularly in each other’s so called ‘spiritual progress’) we’d see optimism oozing from every pore. We’d radiate it in our mutual exchanges and show it in our daily habits. And that wouldn’t be so strange because we all enjoy pleasure-oriented habits, even those involving some disciplines. Just as lifeguards love being on the beach, at the same time they love saving lives when people get into difficulties. They’re useful and they love being so. Whole relationships can surely be based on this same pleasure principle.
As we develop new and sometimes not-so-easy-to-install habits, the main driver should always be optimism. The reasoning behind our habits is a big strengthener for them. It helps set them in place. And when we act optimistically, they fall into place. These new habits (like kids settling in on their first day at school) are a bit shaky at first. It’s optimism that gets us over the hump, equipping us for the repair journey ahead.
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