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Stephen Covey said, “We develop our character muscles by overcoming challenges and adversity.” This quote is proven true in two books: Chico of the Andes by Christine Von Hagen and Gabriel and the Hour Book by Evaleen Stein. Although the main characters of the books – Chico and Gabriel – have many differences, they both face similar challenges that make them stronger in the end.

One of the challenges that both Chico and Gabriel face is being poor. Neither of the boys’ families have much money. However, neither of the boys complains or has a bad attitude about his circumstances. Instead, they work hard to earn it. With every trial that we have, we can complain and have a negative attitude, or we can have a good attitude and do the best with what we have.

Another challenge that both Chico and Gabriel face is needing to solve a problem that has to do with their parents. For Chico needs to find his parents and Gabriel needs to free his father. They both make great efforts to solve these problems, and are at first disappointed. Yet in the end both boys have a happy resolution to their problems.

I feel this essay would not be complete, if thy did not mention that not only these characters have trials we all do. If we work hard and wait on the Lord, we can always get through our trials.

Disclaimer: Made with the assistance of the Good and the Beautiful Curriculum.

Did you know the basic action of smiling, even “fake” smiling releases happy chemicals to the mind? Likely not.
In fact, studies prove that pessimists are more probable to develop serious diseases later on in living than optimists. Studies also show that they are less probable to have emotional problems, depression, and more troublesome health. These are just a few reasons why we should be more attentive to the way we chose to respond to situations. Our physical health and happiness are greatly impacted by how optimistic we chose to be.

We all know that things like exercise and sleep affect our physical health, but optimism also impacts our physical bodies. For example, optimism supports your immune system,allowing your body to improve fights against disease and sickness. Our brilliant bodies are able to do their jobs of repairing quicker when we are focused on the brighter face of things. It’s hard to ignore the importance of optimism when you consider all the physical benefits it gives.

If you want to happier, try being more optimistic. Within John, Jesus said,”In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” Being optimistic makes you of good cheer, even upon a world of suffering! In addition, optimists often are more interactive and therefore strong relationships. This type of lifestyle reduces stress, which helps you to endure life’s struggles by seeing blessings even in hard trials. Then you can grow in these instead of “gloominess in everything.” It’s clear that optimism is a key to happiness and other fruits.

In conclusion, being optimistic leads you toward a happier and healthier lifestyle.