I can't say I'm a fan of the cynical, bleak, melancholy tone that currently permeates American culture. Few things trouble me more than the idea that we are deep into an age of disaffected irony, where "trying" and "caring" just aren't cool.
Being suspicious of effort, passion and discipline is a vicious strain of pessimistic bullshit. I understand that it may be a defense mechanism, a buffer of sorts. Some of us use this as a layer of protection against the anxiety of our potential failures, but let us not forget that reflexive naysaying tends to also stunt the dreams of others. The cynic often looks wise, but rarely has the courage to be vulnerable; and vulnerability is what can make human endeavor truly beautiful.
Some of us hesitate with every step (an admittedly stunting way to live) and have a lot of our own trauma to work through. But part of doing that work is learning not to shit on the work of others.
Nihilism is a sexy fall fashion, along with weaponized humor, but it rarely summons the courage needed to heal, to listen and to Love. It can vanquish enemies, sure, but keep your eyes open for the unintended casualties of friendly fire. Words of discouragement and mockery hurt people, even when accompanied by acerbic wit.
I guess what I am saying, as a Note To MYSELF and Others is: Try not to make people feel bad for Trying, Creating, Caring. It's not a character defect to give a shit.
