We Need a Few More Optimists

We need a few more optimists,

The kind that double up their fists

And set their jaws, determined-like,

A blow at infamy to strike.

Not smiling men, who drift along

And compromise with every wrong;

Not grinning optimists who cry

That right was never born to die,

But optimists who'll fight to give

The truth an honest chance to live.

We need a few more optimists

For places in our fighting lists,

The kind of hopeful men who make

Real sacrifice for freedom's sake;

The optimist, with purpose strong,

Who stands to battle every wrong,

Takes off his coat, and buckles in

The better joys of earth to win!

The optimist who worries lest

The vile should overthrow the best.

We need a few more optimists,

The brave of heart that long resists

The force of Hate and Greed and lust

And keeps in God and man his trust,

Believing, as he makes his fight

That everything will end all right —

Yet through the dreary days and nights

Unfalteringly serves and fights,

And helps to gain the joys which he

Believes are some day sure to be.

We need a few more optimists

Of iron hearts and sturdy wrists;

Not optimists who smugly smile

And preach that in a little while

The clouds will fade before the sun,

But cheerful men who'll bear a gun,

And hopeful men, of courage stout,

Who'll see disaster round about

And yet will keep their faith, and fight,

And gain the victory for right.