Fatalist or Realist?

The week before I travel I review my life insurance, will, documents noting websites and passwords along with any instruction I want either my husband or daughters to follow in case something happens to me.  Am I a fatalist or a realist?

The most recent incidents in Orland, New York and on board the plane from Paris to Cairo would validate my realist attitude.  While the plane crash has not been ruled an act of terrorism, plane accidents do occur. When I travel I take that into consideration and prepare as if I am not coming back.  Am I a fatalist or a pessimist?

There are famous songs and speeches discussing this very subject: Live like there is no tomorrow, If today was your last day, Someone should tell us right from the start that we are dying…there are only so many tomorrows.  Do we abandon all and do what we want, some say yes.  Are they fatalists or realists?

Realism tells us events happen and to be prepared; fatalism tells us it is going to happen and nothing you can do about it.  I believe in the good in the world, even when the bad is spotlighted.  I believe in the helpers and the love that most people have that calls out to help even at the risk of their own safety. I guess I am optimism with a dash of realism. 

I pray for us, as we are all affected by these tragedies.  I pray for peace and understanding.  I look at the bright sky realizing it does seem bluer on days when tragedy strikes while I and my loved ones are safe. I am grateful for what I have at this very moment.  Fatalists, realists, omptistics and all other personality types, We got to make this land a better land than the world in which we live. Yes we can, yes we can.

I still believe in Mr. Rogers and I hope you do too.

"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of 'disaster,' I remember my mother's words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers--so many caring people in this world." Mr. Rogers