Optimism - the doctrine or belief that everything is beautiful, including what is ugly.
Ambrose BierceCOMMENDATION n. The tribute that we pay to achievements that resembles but do not equal our own.
Ambrose BiercePIANO, n. A parlor utensil for subduing the impenitent visitor. It is operated by depressing the keys of the machine and the spirits of the audience.
Ambrose BierceWhile your friend holds you affectionately by both your hands, you are safe, for you can watch both his.
Ambrose BierceINJUSTICE, n. A burden which of all those that we load upon others and carry ourselves is lightest in the hands and heaviest upon the back.
Ambrose BierceEFFECT, n. The second of two phenomena which always occur together in the same order. The first, called a Cause, is said to generate the other-which is no more sensible than it would be for one who has never seen a dog except in pursuit of a rabbit to declare the rabbit the cause of the dog.
Ambrose Bierce