The Crisis Optimist by Meredith Farkas

The Crisis Optimist by Meredith Farkas

            Librarian Meredith Farkas always thought she was a pessimist until she spotted a quote from Winston Churchill—“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” She realized then and there that she really was an optimist, at least as an educator. Difficulties just bring the opportunity for change and getting out of the comfort zone. Change can be good. As a librarian, she has faced a lot of change due to people leaving and budget constraints. But she sees it all as a catalyst for change.

            She says that despite the obstacles, she is looking forward to improving their instructional program, share ideas about instruction with the teachers and learn from them. Even with budget constraints, she believes that she can still find ways to provide better “instructional outreach to faculty and distance learners.” (Farkas)

            I liked this article because I personally believe that everyone can do something in the midst of difficulties, even if it is only changing one’s own attitude. Obstacles help us come up with more creative problem solving solutions. Many innovations would never have been discovered without difficulties to overcome. This is a great lesson for all of us!

Citation:

Farkas, Meredith. “The Crisis Optimist.” Information Wants To Be Free 5 Jun 2011. Web. 17 Jun 2011. http://meredith.wolfwater.com/wordpress/feed/