I know that I should probably say that what I like most about belonging to an Optimist Club are the people. Working together with others who share similar goals and ideas for our communities is special and I do appreciate the friendships that I have made in my club and throughout the Optimist International organization.
However, what I like most about belonging to an Optimist Club is the Optimist Creed. The Optimist Creed, written by Christian D. Larson and adopted by Optimist International in 1922, provides ten simple resolutions that will lead the reader to happiness. As we make our resolutions for the new year, one would be wise to keep the tenets of the Optimist Creed in mind. Adopt the words, and actions, as the way you choose to live each day:
Promise YourselfDownload a printable copy of the Optimist Creed.
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
As you might imagine, one can read and live by the Optimist Creed without belonging to an Optimist Club and while that is a good start, your purpose is not complete until you share your commitment with others.
Optimist Club members promise to share a positive way of life with others. They support one another, and their communities, with this dream and draw strength from one another in order to fulfill it. You, and those around you, will draw the same strength by sharing optimism with others. Join an Optimist Club and be a positive force for good in your home and community.
