[Gay State Conservative]

...but you understand why people are at least ‘hoping’ that the right thing happens.

Of course I can.But beliefs like this lead to complacency...which would lead to BillyBob being The First Rapist.

[pieceofthepuzzle]

The right approach, IMHO, is to be hopeful and optimistic, but also motivated and not complacent. It's a tough balance, and if people are too pessimistic is de-motivates.