Optimism or Realism

OK. I’ll admit I’m an optimist. It’s as natural as breathing to me. I’ll find something positive in any situation or person. I’m not blind to hatred, fear, injustice, and all of the scary things that are going on in the world. From a certain point of view, you could say I almost have an unnatural tendency these days towards looking at these things. Sometimes concerned friends tell me I should go on a “news fast” for my own good. But it seems like the more I look at the ugly stuff, the more hopeful I get. Because I know we can overcome it.
I wore a veil of cynicism for most of my life. Maybe “suit of armor” is a more appropriate metaphor, though a little cheesy. Like most grownups, it’s taken me many years of inner work to learn to trust and let down my tough exterior, and I’m not nearly done yet. And I believe it’s the innocence and optimism at the very core of my being that has given me the strength to push through the layers of cynicism covering my personality. Certainly the inspiration didn’t come from my culture – cynical humor is always guaranteed to get a laugh – watch any sitcom on TV. OK now stop - it’s not good for you!
And I would propose that this core of optimism is at the core of every one of us. In whatever individual ways, we throw up protective barriers around us to protect ourselves from the harshness of the world. But I don’t want to define your reality for you. If you feel you’re a pessimist to the core, so be it. In my eyes, though, you are as young and hopeful and innocent inside as the day you were born.
In fact, the word “optimist” is a bit of a stretch for me. I prefer “realist.” This layer of callousness we wear on the outside is a construct. We teach ourselves to be violent, self-serving, and pessimistic. There are studies that show this - soldiers have to be taught to kill. Really, we are caring, generous and cooperative at our core.