Being a cock-eyed optimist is as easy as choosing to see everything in the best possible way.  And it’s as hard as choosing to see everything in the best possible way.  It means that you’re well aware of the flaws in the political systems, in the sinfulness of human beings especially when their religious views are challenged, in the horror and pain that other people inflict on other people.  But that you choose to try to make a difference in your little corner of the planet, in the lives of the people you come into contact with, sometimes with just a smile because that’s all the contact you have.  At least, that’s the way I see it.