If anything is worthy of praise

Finally, brothers, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there is anything of virtue/excellence, and if there is any worthy of praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

When I read this, I have often been shamefully dismissive of it. There is a cynical part of my mind which sees it as wishful thinking, or a sort of determined naivety. The more open-minded voice inside me recognizes and acknowledges the value -- and then wants credit merely for speaking up against the cynicism, without actually doing what we are here encouraged to do.

• What is true? The sun came up this morning. 
• What is honorable? Those who stand by their convictions with modesty and reason.
• What is just? The Day when hatred will cease.
• What is pure? The hope for a spark of joy.
• What is lovely? The out-of-season lily that is still blooming under the crepe myrtle.
• What has a good reputation? I had to think really hard about this one. I'm going with: Green vegetables.
• Is there anything of virtue/excellence (older translation: any virtue)? Joy.
• Is there anything worthy of praise? The skill of a certain pianist that I have in mind.

Think on these things. Take inventory of them. Take stock. Some good things fade away for lack of recognition, or lack of care. May it not be on our watch.

Update 12/14/2016: Dr Platypus has added a list of his own, which is truly worth a read.