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Fatalistic Optimism?
JJ Gross in "Yaakov and Esther: How Fatalistic Optimism Defines the Jewish People (Miketz)" wrote, "something both paradoxical and uniquely hashtagJewish. I would call it FATALISTIC OPTIMISM, two sentiments that are polar opposites. A fatalist is someone who is resigned to fate, and has pretty much abandoned all hope of being able to affect an outcome. An optimist never doubts that things will work out favorably. Herein lies the key to Jewish survival. On the one hand, we realistically expect the worst to happen. At the same time we have an equally immutable faith that things will somehow work out."
Lots to think about in that passage.
As described in JJ Gross's reflection, Fatalistic optimism aligns intriguingly with the resilience-driven nature of optimism explored in The Optimism Principle. The coexistence of a pragmatic acceptance of potential hardships with an unwavering belief in positive outcomes mirrors the essence of realistic optimism. Optimism doesn't deny life's challenges but approaches them with a mindset that solutions will arise, and better outcomes are within reach.
Gross's description of the Jewish experience resonates with a broader, universal truth: optimism can coexist with an acceptance of difficult realities. This duality makes optimism a powerful force, especially in leadership and transformation. It provides individuals and communities with the emotional and psychological strength to endure and overcome adversity while inspiring action and hope.
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