I hold the work of Barbara Ehrenreich in very, very high esteem. Which is why I’m trying really hard not to pre-judge her book Bright-Sided. I just watched her discuss its premise with Jon Stewart and am dismayed that she seems to be generalizing those of us who feel positive thinking is a crucial aspect of living a productive, healthy, spiritual and happy life.
While I deeply empathize with people who are suffering (Ehrenreich began this line of thinking after being diagnosed with breast cancer) and have insensitive zealots blowing sunshine up their butts, this sounds like an over-simplification of the positive thinking movement.
OK, I’m starting to seep into pre-judging territory. Time to get the book. I feel a Game Plan column coming on.