In his book, "Humankind, A Hopeful History",
Rutger Bregman writes about cynicism vs. realism.
And I quote:
Isn't it telling that in modern usage the realist has become synonymous
with the cynic - for someone with a pessimistic outlook?
In truth, it's the cynic who's out of touch.
In truth, we're living on Planet A,
where people are deeply inclined to be good to one another.
So, be realistic. Be courageous. Be true to your nature and offer your trust.
Do good in broad daylight,
and don't be ashamed of your generosity.
You may be dismissed as gullible and naive at first.
But remember, what's naive today may be common sense tomorrow.
It's time for a new realism.
It's time for a new view of humankind.
It's a good book, with lots of examples of goodness that outweighs the craziness.
Photo of Treaty Oak, in Jacksonville Florida, ©2020 Laine Quinn
They say that this Southern Live Oak tree is over 200 years old, but I would offer that it is way older than that!