I have something to tell you guys.
I mean, it took me a while to even realize, and I understand if there are some people here that may not know how to react to such news. It's kind of funny, though. Because, looking back, I don't know how I didn't see the signs. And I'm more than sure there are some of you that knew this about me before I even realized it about myself. Well, here goes, and I hope ya'll still maintain the same level of respect for me that you had before. (or the same level of whatever it was you had for me). This isn't easy to say, but I can't live the lie anymore. I have to come out...
I... Am an optimist.
Just wait, before you say anything. I know. The current cultural and economic climates really do not support this type of behaviour, but, dammit, THIS IS WHO I AM! And I'm not going to change, no matter how bad things get. Sure, it may be tough to hear, but us people, well, we've gotten out of shit-lined ditches and sink-holes before, and I believe that we have a RIGHT to think positively about our situation now. The right to believe that human innovation, imagination, and methods of self preservation will persevere, and we can move on to become a truly advanced civilization.
Before you go off the handle, let me say this: Me being an optimist in NO WAY cheapens the cynical, pessimistic nature of personhood, it simply adds to the diversity. The whole world isn't going to stop turning because of a few of us optimists. In fact, your pessimistic agenda reinforces defeatist attitudes, and that's a game I just can't play anymore. We owe it to our children, and our children's children, to build a world where people don't have to worry about thinking positive thoughts, and have no need to fear prosecution because they just happen to be genetically predisposed to seeing the glass as "half-full."
I see a world where the pessimists and optimists work together. Working together we can not only IDENTIFY problems, but we can have the power to FIX them! I see a world where a loving grandparent can proudly say "Oh, that's my grandson, he's an optimist, y'know." without having to worry about some ignoramus calling him "naive" or "unrealistic."
No. I know now that there is nothing wrong with the way I am. And I say to all others on this forum, and elsewhere, IT'S OKAY TO BE OPTIMISTIC! And for the non-optimistic, don't worry, you're not going to suddenly "switch teams" simply because we're allowed to openly be part of society. So, I invite those that have been harboring feelings such as mine to come out, too. Support the optimist lifestyle by posting here in this topic. And, there's room for everybody, even the pessimists, to come in and support our culture, that has been obstructed by shadows for too long.
Optimism, like pessimism, is a filter that gets between you and reality.
But if it makes you feel good, why not? Some people do crack for that.
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 07:35:47 PM
Optimism, like pessimism, is a filter that gets between you and reality.
But if it makes you feel good, why not? Some people do crack for that.
It's that kind of hate-speech that is destroying us, as a society.
While I don't agree with your wotldview, I completely support your decision.
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 07:37:08 PM
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 07:35:47 PM
Optimism, like pessimism, is a filter that gets between you and reality.
But if it makes you feel good, why not? Some people do crack for that.
It's that kind of hate-speech that is destroying us, as a society.
Yeah. :)
The main thing to watch out for in this situation is politics. Optimism frequently leads people to think they can improve the world, and that can make you even more annoying than religious missionaries.
As many of my friends will tell you.
Quote from: Jenkem and SPACE/TIME on July 27, 2011, 07:41:29 PM
While I don't agree with your wotldview, I completely support your decision.
Thank you, Freeky. What people don't realize is that this isn't a choice. I can't just choose to see the glass as half empty, and it's not some sort of "condition" that will just go away with therepy. Hopefully people will see this productive discourse between optimists and pessimists, and we can begin to work together towards completing goals as a cohesive society.
It's OK, Dimo. I'm an optimist too.
I try to hide it, but it just won't stay down.
Quote from: Dr Preference on July 27, 2011, 07:43:00 PM
The main thing to watch out for in this situation is politics. Optimism frequently leads people to think they can improve the world, and that can make you even more annoying than religious missionaries.
As many of my friends will tell you.
Please, don't make me explain the concepts of "social commentary" and "parody" to you. It really kills the feel of a piece if you have to explain the concept word for word.
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:48:59 PM
It's OK, Dimo. I'm an optimist too.
I try to hide it, but it just won't stay down.
You don't have to hide it anymore. It's dangerous and self-destructive to do so. Go ahead, say it loud, say it proud: I AM HERE, AND I CARE!
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 07:52:43 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:48:59 PM
It's OK, Dimo. I'm an optimist too.
I try to hide it, but it just won't stay down.
You don't have to hide it anymore. It's dangerous and self-destructive to do so. Go ahead, say it loud, say it proud: I AM HERE, AND I CARE!
I WAS BORN THIS WAY!
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:55:34 PM
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 07:52:43 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:48:59 PM
It's OK, Dimo. I'm an optimist too.
I try to hide it, but it just won't stay down.
You don't have to hide it anymore. It's dangerous and self-destructive to do so. Go ahead, say it loud, say it proud: I AM HERE, AND I CARE!
I WAS BORN THIS WAY!
YES!!! BIG-OPTIMISTIC-DANCE-PARTY!!!!
:noodledance: :ronpaul: :hammer: :milk: :monkeydance:
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 08:00:27 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:55:34 PM
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 07:52:43 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:48:59 PM
It's OK, Dimo. I'm an optimist too.
I try to hide it, but it just won't stay down.
You don't have to hide it anymore. It's dangerous and self-destructive to do so. Go ahead, say it loud, say it proud: I AM HERE, AND I CARE!
I WAS BORN THIS WAY!
YES!!! BIG-OPTIMISTIC-DANCE-PARTY!!!!
:noodledance: :ronpaul: :hammer: :milk: :monkeydance:
JOEY KAPLAN DANCE PARTIES, INC APPROVES!
:joey:
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 08:00:27 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:55:34 PM
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 07:52:43 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:48:59 PM
It's OK, Dimo. I'm an optimist too.
I try to hide it, but it just won't stay down.
You don't have to hide it anymore. It's dangerous and self-destructive to do so. Go ahead, say it loud, say it proud: I AM HERE, AND I CARE!
I WAS BORN THIS WAY!
YES!!! BIG-OPTIMISTIC-DANCE-PARTY!!!!
:noodledance: :ronpaul: :hammer: :milk: :monkeydance:
It's people like you that are tearing apart the fabric that this country's roots were founded on.
(http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/9474/churchsignh.jpg)
Quote from: ☄ · · · N E T · · · ☄ on July 27, 2011, 08:15:29 PM
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 08:00:27 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:55:34 PM
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 07:52:43 PM
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 07:48:59 PM
It's OK, Dimo. I'm an optimist too.
I try to hide it, but it just won't stay down.
You don't have to hide it anymore. It's dangerous and self-destructive to do so. Go ahead, say it loud, say it proud: I AM HERE, AND I CARE!
I WAS BORN THIS WAY!
YES!!! BIG-OPTIMISTIC-DANCE-PARTY!!!!
:noodledance: :ronpaul: :hammer: :milk: :monkeydance:
It's people like you that are tearing apart the fabric that this country's roots were founded on.
And it's people like you that vehemently attack people like us, because you harbor immense guilt and resentment because of your OWN repressed optimistic nature!
I have nothing against Optimists, but allowing them to marry makes a farce of the institution.
Marriage is defined as two bitter pessimists.
IT'S ADAM & EVE, NOT HAPPY & AT EASE!
Oh gawd I think I poomped my pance... :lulz:
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 07:50:43 PM
Quote from: Dr Preference on July 27, 2011, 07:43:00 PM
The main thing to watch out for in this situation is politics. Optimism frequently leads people to think they can improve the world, and that can make you even more annoying than religious missionaries.
As many of my friends will tell you.
Please, don't make me explain the concepts of "social commentary" and "parody" to you. It really kills the feel of a piece if you have to explain the concept word for word.
I see that Dr Preference is making friends here just as fast as he did in the intros thread. :lol:
I get the feeling he was trying to be funny.
Faust thinks he's funny. Perhaps it's just cultural differences?
I try to be funny and fail all the time. I've stopped trying.... :|
Maybe he's funny. Or maybe I'm being optimistic.
Quote from: Jenkem and SPACE/TIME on July 27, 2011, 08:38:04 PM
Perhaps it's just cultural differences?
That's as good a reason as any to have an argument.
Quote from: Jenkem and SPACE/TIME on July 27, 2011, 08:38:04 PM
Faust thinks he's funny. Perhaps it's just cultural differences?
Maybe Faust finds Aspies to be hilarious or some shit.
Quote from: Khara on July 27, 2011, 08:40:28 PM
Or maybe I'm being optimistic.
They have retreats you can go on where they cure you of that with Jebus.
Quote from: Dr Preference on July 27, 2011, 08:42:25 PM
Quote from: Jenkem and SPACE/TIME on July 27, 2011, 08:38:04 PM
Perhaps it's just cultural differences?
That's as good a reason as any to have an argument.
Not really, dude. It's asinine, because nobody is even trying to see the other side of the argument. That's stupid monkey behavior, and I don't buy it.
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 08:45:09 PM
Quote from: Khara on July 27, 2011, 08:40:28 PM
Or maybe I'm being optimistic.
They have retreats you can go on where they cure you of that with Jebus.
Have YOU accepted Baby Jesus into YOUR life? Isn't it about time you did?
Quote from: Jenkem and SPACE/TIME on July 27, 2011, 08:46:39 PM
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 08:45:09 PM
Quote from: Khara on July 27, 2011, 08:40:28 PM
Or maybe I'm being optimistic.
They have retreats you can go on where they cure you of that with Jebus.
Have YOU accepted Baby Jesus into YOUR life? Isn't it about time you did?
He never gave me my circular saw back. :crankey:
Not that I expected him to.
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 08:47:52 PM
Quote from: Jenkem and SPACE/TIME on July 27, 2011, 08:46:39 PM
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 08:45:09 PM
Quote from: Khara on July 27, 2011, 08:40:28 PM
Or maybe I'm being optimistic.
They have retreats you can go on where they cure you of that with Jebus.
Have YOU accepted Baby Jesus into YOUR life? Isn't it about time you did?
He never gave me my circular saw back. :crankey:
Not that I expected him to.
The Lord will provide.
I think we need more optimists.
They'll be easier to catch and eat when the time comes.
:spittake:
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 08:44:37 PM
Quote from: Jenkem and SPACE/TIME on July 27, 2011, 08:38:04 PM
Faust thinks he's funny. Perhaps it's just cultural differences?
Maybe Faust finds Aspies to be hilarious or some shit.
I suspect it's a natural defense mechanism anytime you find yourself having to live in the same country that produced James Joyce and IANAR.
Quote from: Fuck You One-Eye on July 27, 2011, 08:58:11 PM
I suspect it's a natural defense mechanism anytime you find yourself having to live in the same country that produced James Joyce and IANAR.
What's IANAR?
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 08:25:16 PM
I have nothing against Optimists, but allowing them to marry makes a farce of the institution.
Marriage is defined as two bitter pessimists.
IT'S ADAM & EVE, NOT HAPPY & AT EASE!
:spit:
Optimist? Aren't they the ones that check your vision every few years?
You know I've been known to be one myself (http://www.principiadiscordia.com/forum/index.php?topic=22666.0).
Dimo, I think you should move here and marry me.
This fread is teh awesome.
I do not say that with any so-called optimism whatsofuckingever.
Quote from: Eater of Clowns on July 27, 2011, 09:30:44 PM
Optimist? Aren't they the ones that check your vision every few years?
You know I've been known to be one myself (http://www.principiadiscordia.com/forum/index.php?topic=22666.0).
:cheers:
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 09:39:20 PM
Dimo, I think you should move here and marry me.
Is this a legitimate proposal?
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 10:36:07 PM
Quote from: Eater of Clowns on July 27, 2011, 09:30:44 PM
Optimist? Aren't they the ones that check your vision every few years?
You know I've been known to be one myself (http://www.principiadiscordia.com/forum/index.php?topic=22666.0).
:cheers:
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 09:39:20 PM
Dimo, I think you should move here and marry me.
Is this a legitimate proposal?
I'm not entirely joking. :)
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 10:37:22 PM
Quote from: Cuddleshift on July 27, 2011, 10:36:07 PM
Quote from: Eater of Clowns on July 27, 2011, 09:30:44 PM
Optimist? Aren't they the ones that check your vision every few years?
You know I've been known to be one myself (http://www.principiadiscordia.com/forum/index.php?topic=22666.0).
:cheers:
Quote from: Nigel on July 27, 2011, 09:39:20 PM
Dimo, I think you should move here and marry me.
Is this a legitimate proposal?
I'm not entirely joking. :)
This might not be a terrible idea. Then again, it might be terrible, but for all the right reasons.
Quote from: Dr Preference on July 27, 2011, 09:02:34 PM
Quote from: Fuck You One-Eye on July 27, 2011, 08:58:11 PM
I suspect it's a natural defense mechanism anytime you find yourself having to live in the same country that produced James Joyce and IANAR.
What's IANAR?
Some dude from Ireland. Faust says he's not representative of you guys, but I have my doubts.
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 11:22:59 PM
Some dude from Ireland. Faust says he's not representative of you guys, but I have my doubts.
I see. Thanks.
I'd agree with Faust when it comes to IANAR. But then most of the irish people ive spent significant amount of time with are all over the age of 40.
Quote from: Dr Preference on July 27, 2011, 11:33:27 PM
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 11:22:59 PM
Some dude from Ireland. Faust says he's not representative of you guys, but I have my doubts.
I see. Thanks.
He looks like this:
(http://www.principiadiscordia.com/forum/Smileys/default/assburgersvj2.jpg)
And he writes lovely shit like this:
http://www.principiadiscordia.com/forum/index.php?topic=14112.0
And this:
http://www.principiadiscordia.com/forum/index.php?topic=19300.0
Serious question: Do you think this young man accurately represents Ireland?
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 11:22:59 PM
Quote from: Dr Preference on July 27, 2011, 09:02:34 PM
Quote from: Fuck You One-Eye on July 27, 2011, 08:58:11 PM
I suspect it's a natural defense mechanism anytime you find yourself having to live in the same country that produced James Joyce and IANAR.
What's IANAR?
Some dude from Ireland. Faust says he's not representative of you guys, but I have my doubts.
Still doesn't excuse James Joyce.
While its true that there's something wrong with every Irish person, i think IANAR is a special case. Unless, possibly, he's from Cork. :lulz:
Quote from: Fuck You One-Eye on July 27, 2011, 11:40:15 PM
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 11:22:59 PM
Quote from: Dr Preference on July 27, 2011, 09:02:34 PM
Quote from: Fuck You One-Eye on July 27, 2011, 08:58:11 PM
I suspect it's a natural defense mechanism anytime you find yourself having to live in the same country that produced James Joyce and IANAR.
What's IANAR?
Some dude from Ireland. Faust says he's not representative of you guys, but I have my doubts.
Still doesn't excuse James Joyce.
Or William Butler Yeats, for that matter.
Quote from: Nephew Twiddleton on July 27, 2011, 11:41:24 PM
While its true that there's something wrong with every Irish person,
The fact that they're Irish?
Quote from: Doktor Howl on July 27, 2011, 11:38:33 PM
Serious question: Do you think this young man accurately represents Ireland?
Well, there's a certain Irishness to his idiocy, I can't deny that.
As regards the dead writers, I'll happily defend Joyce, but not Yeats. They were both frauds, but Joyce was fun.
Well yes to a degree but the lack of sunlight aggravates the irishness.
(to the OP/rejack)
DIMO, FUCK YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Quote from: Nephew Twiddleton on July 27, 2011, 11:41:24 PM
While its true that there's something wrong with every Irish person, i think IANAR is a special case. Unless, possibly, he's from Cork. :lulz:
:lulz:
Nailed it in one, Twid.
Oddly enough, I happen to be an Optimist too, somewhat.
I think that, in general, things will turn out ok for me. Not because they're supposed to, but because I'm usually smart enough to make random shit work out for me in the long run.
That, and because I was born an over-priviliged white male in the US.
Quote from: LMNO, PhD (life continues) on August 02, 2011, 03:39:42 PM
Oddly enough, I happen to be an Optimist too, somewhat.
I think that, in general, things will turn out ok for me. Not because they're supposed to, but because I'm usually smart enough to make random shit work out for me in the long run.
That, and because I was born an over-priviliged white male in the US.
:awesome: