"In order to act wisely we must first see clearly. There is no place among us for the mere pessimist; no man who looks at life with a vision that sees all black or grey can do aught healthful in molding the destiny of a mighty and vigorous people. But there is just as little use for the foolish optimist who refuses to face the many and real evils that exist, and who fails to see that only way to ensure the triumph of righteousness in the future is to war against all that is base, weak, and unlovely in the present."
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The Strenuous Life: Essays and Addresses
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