“Optimism is essential to achievement
and it is also the foundation of courage and true progress.”
Nicholas Murray Butler

For some, the age old dilemma is to decide if the cup is half empty or half full. That is where optimism steps in; deciding that the cup is half full creates a profound shift in attitude and outlook. It is courageous when individuals take a differing viewpoint and, in particular, when those possessing optimistic viewpoints challenge the pessimism and negativity of others.

Choosing negativity (or at the least dwelling on it) undermines efforts to build unity, diminishes the hopes of others, deflates the value of gains achieved and discourages those who desire the undertaking of new tasks and challenges.

What is to be gained by holding steadfast to thoughts and actions that serve only to barricade paths to achievement? Negativity polarizes and hinders the positive efforts of others and, in its extreme, negativity bullies and silences others.

This is where unity and collegiality become critically important. The voices of our members not only need to be heard, but received with open minds. Demonstrating support and tolerance toward one another offers the opportunity to recognize differences and similarities while working toward achieving common goals for the good of all. What, exactly, is wrong with being optimistic, hopeful, and focused on positive approaches to solving the problems and difficulties before us?

Our challenge is to encourage those with voices of optimism to speak out and join in the continuous work of building and supporting the strong foundation of courage that leads to progress for the teachers and students of this district.

Sheila

Remember: Spring elections are coming up! Are you willing to help build unity, undertake the challenge of working on behalf of your colleagues, and be a positive voice for effecting change?