Hopeful versus optimistic

What does it mean to be optimistic when you don't believe in a greater power?

I forget what the exact difference is between being painfully optimistic versus being ever so hopeful -- but there is something. [My high school junior English teacher gave a talk in chapel about it, and it's always stuck with me even though the teacher doesn't remember having me as his student. I know because I visited the campus once as a senior in college^^]

It had something to do with..

Optimism is taking the other option that isn't sadness, so you act happy. You smile, and say good things will happen.

Hope, as long as it's mixed with faith, is trusting that God has laid out a plan for you that will glorify His name and bring you happiness (though it may sometimes cause you strife and tears.. referring to Ecclesiates.. "a time for everything").

I hit my all time low many times in the past specially during high school and college. I no longer will hit that all-time low in my life because I know God is with me, and I've begun to trust in Him again.

I am currently afraid that certain family members are hitting their all time lows... and a lot of their problems resemble mine. It hurts to see them in pain, and it hurts even more so because I know what their pain feels like. I will continue to be there as a "shoulder to lean on," give tough love advice when it comes down to it, and pray pray PRAY for them, but it's up to them how they want to handle the situation: with graceful humility and great compassion or bitter anger and painful tears.

I hope they realize that no matter what kind of pain that has been incurred upon them by others that there is one constant in their lives: God's love. There is a better future out there waiting to happen. Just trust in Him.

*{Prayer is one of the best gifts you can give me and others. I don't need material things. Just pray for each other.}