Cynicism

I think cynicism is one of the most destructive attitudes that a person can have--not only to those around them, but to themselves. I've noticed this in myself a lot in the past year, and I believe that becoming aware of it in yourself is the first step to recovery from it. Because it does actually take a process of recovery to counteract all the damage that is done by cynicism. How much truth have you overlooked because, in your mind, being wrapped up in a cliché makes something invalid?  How much joy have you missed out on because of your intellectual arrogance? How much beauty have you missed out on because you approached a situation with a cynical attitude?

That's what cynicism is when it's really boiled down: intellectual arrogance, and a defense mechanism against the fear of naiveté. It's comes from a sense of superiority for whatever reason, causing the cynical to look down on those who are not as intelligent or aware or right as they are. It's a result of pride, but really it's only a way to deal with our own insecurities.

I found this blog by Donald Miller to be very interesting. I think he's right, that this attitude seems to exists mainly among American white males in their 20s. Cynicism seems to be part of the effort to find an identity. If you are a Christian who suffers from cynicism, know that your identity is found only in Jesus Christ. And learn to appreciate things. Be aware of all the different sources that you can learn from. Practice some humility. You might find yourself a little more joyful, a little more able to love, and growing a lot more in wisdom.