- “We have every reason to be optimistic in this world. Tragedy is around, yes. Problems everywhere, yes. But you can’t, you don’t, build out of pessimism or cynicism. You look with optimism, work with faith, and things happen. Do not despair. Do not give up. Look for the sunlight through the clouds. Opportunities will eventually open to you. Do not let the prophets of gloom endanger your possibilities.” Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Gordon B Hinkley, Chapter 3, Cultivating an Attitude of Happiness and a Spirit of Optimism