Do you ever catch yourself thinking, of course, what’s next? That quiet whisper that life is good…just not for you? That’s cynicism. And if I’m honest, it’s crept into my life more than I like to admit.
For me, cynicism wasn’t loud or obvious. It was subtle—a slow fade from dreaming big to protecting my heart so I wouldn’t get hurt again.
Some of the hardest seasons I’ve walked through were the years of infertility. Month after month of waiting, hoping, praying, and still not seeing the answer. Watching others step into the joy I longed for. Feeling the ache of unanswered prayers.
That’s when cynicism whispered, sure, God is good…but maybe not for me.
But in the middle of the waiting, something shifted. One Sunday in worship, a lyric landed deep in my heart: “You have planted dreams in the good soil of my heart…give me patience.”
It was like God whispered, I see you. I’m not done yet. Gratitude—small, simple gratitude—started softening my heart again.
What I’ve Learned About Cynicism
It sneaks in quietly. It’s rarely big and loud. It’s subtle, often disguised as “protection.”
It’s contagious. Negativity spreads—but so does hope, joy, and gratitude.
It closes us off. Cynicism tricks us into thinking we’re safe, but really, we’re missing God’s goodness right in front of us.
Gratitude shifts everything. Even before circumstances change, gratitude opens us back up to peace and hope.
Quotes to Carry
“Cynicism isn’t about protecting yourself—it’s about closing yourself off from joy, from peace, and sometimes even from God’s voice.”
“Gratitude doesn’t erase the pain, but it changes how we carry it.”
“Cynicism spreads, but so does hope.”
“Gratitude positions our hearts to receive God’s peace.”
Chapter Markers
00:00 — The quiet whisper of cynicism
02:11 — Walking through infertility and the ache of waiting
04:10 — The loneliness of delayed dreams
04:35 — A worship song that shifted everything
05:53 — Why gratitude is the key
06:28 — How cynicism spreads (and so does hope)
08:04 — Small practices that re-open your heart
Your Turn
This week, I invite you to slow down and ask: Where has cynicism crept into my heart—and how can gratitude open me back up to hope?
Maybe it’s three simple things you’re thankful for. Maybe it’s praying with gratitude first. Maybe it’s flipping the narrative and asking, Where can I see God’s hand in this?
Wherever you are, know this: you’re not walking through it alone.
💛 Let’s Stay Connected
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Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/jessica_hustleandheartsalon/
Podcast blog → https://hustleandheartsalon.com/blog/
Salon home → https://hustleandheartsalon.com/
