It's becoming harder and harder to dispute the fact that pessimism does have some negative effect on our bodies and overall health. Not only are optimisitic people pleasant to be around, but they are immensely benefitting themselves as well. The following article relates to this topic. I found it interesting that research is even pointing us towards positive enlightenment. Even more of a reason to smile today!

By Julie Steenhuysen

HOPE
(noun)-
the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best: to give up hope.

(verb)- to believe, desire, or trust: I hope that my work will be satisfactory.

Have you ever really stopped to reflect on the true meaning of "hope"? When asked to define this familiar four-letter word, definitions may vary from person to person. However, it all revolves around one central theme; unyielding faith. To hope is to believe, trust, or maybe desire a certain outcome. People are passionatly hopeful regarding different subjects. Every living, breathing, functioning being carries a certain degree of hope (some more than others). But it is this "hope" in itself that keeps our hearts pumping, our spirits lifted, and our heads held high. And yes, lost hope can cause more pain and suffering than we often give credit for. Without hope, every day becomes a challenge. The cup is no longer half full-it's half empty. It is at this point that attitude and perspective will either make or break a person. As we lose hope, we tend to lose focus. Our needs and wants are not being met. Instead of taking proactive measures, we tend to nurish and feed into negative thoughts. "Why ME?", "Why can't anything ever go right?"...