In reading Maria Popova in the Marginalian newsletter I began to reflect on what stands in the way of us solidly standing among those we love with hope and promise in our hearts. In these times, we are quick to harden our hearts with cynicism when the world appears so unimaginably difficult to comprehend.
Popova quotes Thich Nhat Hahn that to stay open to love and hope:
One must make an active commitment not to succumb to the Western pathology of cynicism, our flawed self-protection mechanism that readily dismisses anything sincere and true as simplistic or naïve.
…even if, or precisely because, we know that all real truth and sincerity are simple by virtue of being true and sincere. Finding fault and feeling hopeless about improving the situation produces resignation — cynicism is both resignation’s symptom and a futile self-protection mechanism against it. Blindly believing that everything will work out just fine also produces resignation, for we have no motive to apply ourselves toward making things better. But, in order to survive — both as individuals and as a civilization — and especially in order to thrive, we need the right balance of critical thinking and hope. A plant needs water in order to survive, and needs the right amount of water in order to thrive. Overwater it and it rots with excess. Underwater it and it dries up inside.
I intend to work harder at not being swallowed up by the cynicism of these times and uphold all that I witness that is true and right as my guiding light. May this lead to more balance in my perspective and create space for hope and love.