“When we only name the problem, when we state complaint without a constructive focus or resolution, we take hope away. In this way critique can become merely an expression of profound cynicism, which then works to sustain dominator culture.”

bell hooks

bell hooks - “When we only name the problem, when we...” 1

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“As human beings, not only do we seek resolution, but we also feel that we deserve resolution. However, not only do we not deserve resolution, we suffer from resolution. We don't deserve resolution; we deserve something better than that. We deserve our birthright, which is the middle way, an open state of mind that can relax with paradox and ambiguity.”

Pema Chodron
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“To be cynical is to be distant. While offering a false intimacy of being "in the know," cynicism actually destroys intimacy. It leads to a creeping bitterness that can deaden and even destroy the spirit...A praying life is just the opposite. It engaged evil. It doesn't take no for an answer. The psalmist was in God's face, hoping, dreaming, asking. Prayer is feisty. Cynicism, on the other hand, merely critiques. It is passive, cocooning itself from the passions of the great cosmic battle we are engaged in. It is without hope.”

Paul E. Miller
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“When all hopes are lost, only then does reality acquire that sharp focus that defines who we are and what we have become.”

Greg Bear
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“True hope is not fully realized when we keep it for ourselves, but only when we imitate Jesus Christ and give it away. That's when hope becomes mature.”

Kim Meeder
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“The cynics are correct the sense of freewill is only that feeling which we have when we take the necessitated option that most appeals to us.”

Will Self
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