Optimism (Primary source)
Optimism presents Keller’s philosophy that despite her deafness and blindness, true happiness comes from inner faith rather than material circumstances. She argues optimism enables achievement and is essential for human progress and personal fulfillment.
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.”
— Helen Keller Primary source“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement; nothing can be done without hope.”
— Helen Keller Primary source“The test of all beliefs is their practical effect in life. It be true that optimism compels the world forward, and pessimism retards it, them it is dangerous to propagate a pessimistic philosophy.”
— Helen Keller Primary source“One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar.”
— Helen Keller Primary source“This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“It is better to take many injuries, than to give one.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“One today is worth two tomorrows.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“You may be too cunning for one, but not for all.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source