Frieda, my Iranian cyber friend went me this lovely poem as a New Year offering. I thought I will share it with you because she is right and we should remember it:

"I learned optimism from American society..The first time I learned to be a positive thinker was, when I arrived in this country. I learned there is always a good story next to the bad one. It's a blessing to be able to see the sunny side of any situation. Anyway, I think this poem is the most positive one I have seen. So I hope you and your family the brightest and the best of the year 2005 can offer".

Samurai Song by Robert Pinsky

When I had no roof I made Audacity my roof. When I had No supper my eyes dined.

When I had no eyes I listened. When I had no ears I thought. When I had no thought I waited.

When I had no father I made Care my father. When I had No mother I embraced order.

When I had no friend I made Quiet my friend. When I had no Enemy I opposed my body.

When I had no temple I made My voice my temple. I have No priest, my tongue is my choir.

When I have no means fortune Is my means. When I have Nothing, death will be my fortune.

Need is my tactic, detachment Is my strategy. When I had No lover courted my sleep.