There is no place among us for the mere pessimist; no man who looks at life with a vision that sees all things black or gray can do aught healthful in molding the destiny of a mighty and vigorous people.
From his speech "The Strenuous Life," this passage dismisses the value of pessimism in shaping the future of a strong nation.
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More from Teddy Roosevelt
The American people by a great plurality have conferred upon you the highest honor in their gift.
No man is worth his salt in public life who makes on the stump a pledge which he does not keep after election; and, if he makes such a pledge and does not keep it, hunt him out of public life.
Our country—this great Republic—means nothing unless it means the triumph of a real democracy, the triumph of popular government, and, in the long run, of an economic system under which each man shall be guaranteed the opportunity to show…
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