The Reality: Christians do and have done horrible things in the name of God. Be it wars, stripping people of their land or resources, the fall of tele-evangelists, heinous actions like this one, or other instances where walk and talk don't match, those bearing the name Christian are, all too often, not Christ-like.
The Thought: It's not uncommon to hear people identify the failings of Christians as their ultimate reason for disregarding Christianity ...
The Reality: Some are arguing that, for America to truly go green, we're going to have to make some short-term sacrifices for long-term benefits.
The Thought: Everyday life is full of choices, many of which come with short-term benefits and long-term consequences, or short-term sacrifices and long-term rewards. To take what's best in the moment is the easy thing, after all, there's instant gratification, but to see the bigger picture and exercise restraint today for a better future, that takes courage and hope.
Quote: Dr. Martin Seligman has studied optimists and pessimists for 25 years. His research has found that optimists have: Less depression than pessimists. Better results than pessimists in most areas of life. Longer lifespan. Healthier than pessimists. Better than pessimists at work and in school. More friends and better social lives.
Discussion Starter: As the article continues, it includes tips from Thomas Edison on optimistic living.
