All individuals are born into different circumstances; some people are lucky enough to live lavish lives of luxury without ever having to work a day in their life. Others lack this privilege, and therefore are faced with the task of handling life's hurdles. Jenny, a character from Sinclair Ross’s “Circus in Town” and Chris Gardner, a real person featured in Jia Yang’s article “‘Happyness’ for Sale” both begin their lives in penurious situations, and both use optimism to cope with their hardships. This attitude is what allows both Jenny and Gardner to maintain a sense of hope and ambition despite pessimistic surroundings; however, while Jenny manages to escape only in mind and spirit, Gardner’s optimism is what allows him to make a distinct
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Jenny,although bright, is a little girl who still possesses the natural sanguineness of childhood. The disappointment of not being able to attend the actual circus fails to reach Jenny, who is too innocent to understand the nature of the situation. She escapes her destitute environment through her vivid imagination, visualizing a better life, filled with “glamour and wonder” (18). Conversely, Gardner is not an eleven-year-old girl, and fully understands his lamentable financial status. Optimism, paired alongside determination to “[get himself] out of the hole” (2) and, assures Gardner that he will one day reach his attainable goals. As a result of this combination, Gardner does achieve success: he drives a “jet-black Bentley” (10) and takes “Maui vacations” (11). Although Jenny's optimism definitely has its merits, in that it is an effective method of coping with her situation, it is unclear whether her optimism actually benefits her future or not. In Gardner's case, there is direct proof of optimism creating a tangible improvement in his life.
Ultimately, optimism is the fueling force behind both Jenny and Gardner’s happiness. In Jenny’s case, having a cheerful and innocent mindset is what helps her mentally evade difficulties in life. For Gardner, it has a substantially powerful impact on his career and lifestyle. Both pieces
Jenny,although bright, is a little girl who still possesses the natural sanguineness of childhood. The disappointment of not being able to attend the actual circus fails to reach Jenny, who is too innocent to understand the nature of the situation. She escapes her destitute environment through her vivid imagination, visualizing a better life, filled with “glamour and wonder” (18). Conversely, Gardner is not an eleven-year-old girl, and fully understands his lamentable financial status. Optimism, paired alongside determination to “[get himself] out of the hole” (2) and, assures Gardner that he will one day reach his attainable goals. As a result of this combination, Gardner does achieve success: he drives a “jet-black Bentley” (10) and takes “Maui vacations” (11). Although Jenny's optimism definitely has its merits, in that it is an effective method of coping with her situation, it is unclear whether her optimism actually benefits her future or not. In Gardner's case, there is direct proof of optimism creating a tangible improvement in his life.
Ultimately, optimism is the fueling force behind both Jenny and Gardner’s happiness. In Jenny’s case, having a cheerful and innocent mindset is what helps her mentally evade difficulties in life. For Gardner, it has a substantially powerful impact on his career and lifestyle. Both pieces