I am an idealist. I believe the world is a good place and I believe that it can be even better. I believe that we can change the world and I believe that we can create an incredible life. Many people mock my idealism. They tell me these things aren't possible and they tell me I'm silly for thinking so. They shake their heads when I tell them I believe the world is full of good people. And laugh when I tell them I don't think we need war to solve problems. But I still believe. And that doesn't make me weak, that makes me strong.

The whole world tells you that you have to be tough, that you have to watch your back, and that the world is a dark place that has an even darker future. If it was up to the news stations they'd be broadcasting that the world has a good chance of ending itself tomorrow. But I don't accept that. Why would I accept a grim future? People can tell me that what I believe is unrealistic but who is to say what is realistic and what is not. One hundred years ago people could never have imagined the world today. Things change because people believe they can. I'm not nearly as scared of being wrong as I am of sitting back and not trying at all. I prefer to seek out beauty over falling for the trap of obvious darkness.

Is it so hard to believe that people don't have to starve to death by the millions on a daily basis or that we can create a world that doesn't over-use fossil fuels? I think not. Mock my idealism but I will revel in it. To me, my idealism is one of the best parts about me. To me, idealism represents love and beauty. It represents that if we love strongly and seek beauty we can change things. I will not let other's fears dismantle my belief in a good world and that an even better one is possible. Do not let the world make you bitter. And next time a person mocks your idealism remind them that idealists are often the most successful people because they believe in change.