By Andy Hale

I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t always look on the bright side of life. And yes, the musical crucifixion scene from The Life of Brian should come flooding into view.

I used to feel like I was on an island for being such a cynic. But lately, it seems like the optimists have taken their place on this non-tropical, waterless, and shadeless island.

Cynicism is so much easier than confidence in people’s general goodness and confidence that somehow change will happen in our world. This, of course, does not come out of nowhere. A cynic has had experience with distrust, fear, hurt or disappointment.

But does cynicism lead to real change? Does it transform individuals and communities? We all know the answer to such questions.

“Somehow, happiness has gotten a bad rap. You can almost feel shamed for seeking happiness. Happiness, some will say, is shallow. So let’s not discount or forget the power of a happy heart,” said Jen Wise, author of The Bright Life: 40 Invitations to Reclaim Your Energy for the Full Life.

We sat down with the author and professional optimist to discuss her new book.

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CBF’s podcast shares stories from across the Fellowship and innovative practices of those working to renew God’s world. The vision is to share ideas, stories, and innovations from ministers, authors, and practitioners.

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Sponsorship

This podcast episode is brought to you by Fuller Seminary and The Center for Congregational Health.

Andy Hale created and hosts the podcast of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Hale is the senior pastor of University Baptist Church of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, following eight years as the founding pastor of Mosaic Church of Clayton and five years as CBF’s church start specialist. Follow on Twitter @haleandy