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.