The Cynic In Me

So this current entry is simply intended to be a question, but it could end up being something bigger. I’m not exactly sure yet. At this current moment in time I’m wondering if it is better to open oneself up to the world and take things or just shut oneself off from it and never let anything it. Both sides of the argument have their pros and cons, but as of right now, I’m a little unsure of which is the better choice. Maybe it’s a combination of the two and simply the ability of a person to just keep their emotions and thoughts in check.

In this corner, we have the argument of just assuming the worst of the world and remaining callous and cynical towards it. While I’m sure it’s unfulfilling, it does allow a certain amount of protection. In fact, it fully protects you from everything. If you never open up and expose yourself to the world, you’ll stay safe. Sure, you’ll be viewed by others as some monster that is devoid of feeling, but in fact, this person is probably the most emotional one out there. They are the one unwilling to expose themselves to the world for a myriad of reasons. It’s better to avoid the danger of getting hurt and just protecting yourself.

The opponent to this is opening up and expressing your true self to the world. This is the more dangerous argument, but maybe it takes more courage to do this. Is it possible that the person who is unwilling, not unable, to expose themselves to the world is simply a coward? Additionally, if you open yourself up to the world, there are a lot of pleasant feelings that waiting. However, they do not come without risk.

I can say I’ve been on both sides of the argument and the first one is generally unfulfilling, while the second has fleeting moments of joy. I come off largely as a cynic with that previous statement, but I have yet to see the light at the end of my tunnel. The hope that it is there exists, but nobody really knows.