It's time to SMILE! Here's a fresh dose of optimism from Astronaut and hero, Chris Hadifeld

Few Americans know the names of the legendary astronauts that paved the way into space. Fewer still know the names of the space-faring heroes who fly today, still pioneering our first steps into the cosmic sea. However, Chris Hadfield, Canada's top aviator and one of the world's greatest astronauts, is known and now he has a message of optimism for all.

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LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - Astronauts still capture public imagination, even if they're not the acclaimed heroes they once were during the Mercury to Apollo days. Chris Hadfield is an exceptional case. During his last mission he recorded a rendition of David Bowie's "Space Oddity" which made him a YouTube sensation and a household name.

Since his recent retirement, Chris Hadfield has gone on public speaking tours and even has his own meme. When he does speak, the public appreciates what he has to say. On the occasion of the New Year, Hadfield has a new message of optimism for the world.

What's yours? Light a candle for your New Year's hope.

It is easy for us to despair. When we view the news all we see are stories of destruction and woe. There's fear. Fear for the economy, for democracy, fear of the police state, corporate domination of our lives and more. Fear of terrorism, fear of war, fear of disaster. Fear sells, and because we're inundated with it, we often lose our perspective.

However, there's incredible optimism for us. The human race is capable, adaptable and intelligent. There are souls among us who are filled with compassion and whose good deeds can stop dictators, bullets and diseases.

Chris Hadfield had this perspective for us, "In 100 years, we've gone from filming the Wright brothers, to landing a camera on Titan, a moon 800 million miles away," he said.

"There are problems with everything and nothing is yet perfect, but that shouldn't be cause to bemoan. That should be cause to achieve. Our world is a better place than we often claim it to be."

Hadfield pointed out advancements in health, longevity and in other fields as reasons to hope.

"When thinking if you're going to be optimistic this year, remember, nobody changes the world on their own, it all starts with a resolution," he concluded.

"What's yours?"

You can view the video and check out Hadfield's You tube channel here.

Light a candle and share your New Year's resolution.

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