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Cynicism is an unpleasant way of saying the truth.

Cynicism is the easiest of all reactions, right? But it's also so disappointing and self-defeating.

Cynicism stems from disappointment. Cynical and faithless people were not always like that. They were filled with possibilities and hope as kids. But they tried and perhaps failed.

I understand the concept of optimism. But I think with me what you get is a lack of cynicism.

The worst cynicism: a belief in luck.

The cure for cynicism is simply to engage honestly.

I'm a hopeful cynic.

Cynicism masquerades as wisdom, but it is the furthest thing from it. Because cynics don't learn anything. Because cynicism is a self-imposed blindness: a rejection of the world because we are afraid it will hurt us or disappoint us. Cynics always say 'no.' But saying 'yes' begins things. Saying 'yes' is how things grow.

Cynicism is intellectual dandyism.

It is only the cynicism that is born of success that is penetrating and valid.