As we hide from the overwhelming, brutal and constant daily news stories of death, cruelty and destruction, we unconsciously make a choice. For our own homeostasis and equilibrium we become either a Pessimist or Optimist or a Hermit.

How else can we survive the daily barrage of news events?

Let us look at Mr. Hermit first. Hiding in a cave is not very practical. Also, it is very lonely. Our Mr. Hermit must not listen to the 6 o'clock or 11 o'clock news. No newspapers are allowable. As in the metaphor, he must wear horse blinders and stare straight ahead. Looking to his left or right could cause involvement in the surrounding world and that is not acceptable for our friend, Mr. Hermit.

Mr. Optimist fears nothing. His view of the planet (through the proverbial rose-colored glasses) is always upbeat and filled with large amounts of good cheer and kindness. How does he handle situations like September 11, 2001 or suicide bombings? It is a mystery. Death and illness stalk all human beings. Like Voltaire's Candide, he proclaims "This is the best of all possible worlds!" This is not only the best world, but it is the only world that matters. How can Mr. O. come to grips with rape, incest, brutality, murder, robbery and still stay sane?

I don't know.

Mr. Pessimist can never be pushed off his balance. He can never be shocked. He is skeptical, unbelieving, doubting, not gullible and has a jaundiced eye.

Usually Mr. P. has been around. He is not naive and is always waiting for "the other shoe to drop." To take away the daily dread from a pessimist would ruin his view of the world.

There is an abundance of safety in being a pessimist. He states, "I have seen too much to ever be truly optimistic again. Nobody gets out alive."

Well my reader, there you have it. A choice!

Mr. Hermit, Mr. Optimist or Mr. Pessimist.

Each of the three positions has its advantages.

Each has its drawbacks.

Best wishes and good luck to all. That is about all you can say as you face tomorrow.