Are some religions more upbeat than others? Zarin Hainsworth works for the rights of women around the world as did her mother, a true optimist. “Of course she was, because she was a Baha’i.” says Zarin, who also attributes her own optimism to her Baha’i beliefs. I find her outlook baffling but her accomplishments undeniable. We Jews are not a perky people, but we know admirable work when we see it. A conversation at the New York Baha’i Center with music from Max ZT.

•  PERSON: Táhirih
•  PLACE: Bahai Center, Kampala
•  THING: this jacket
•  RANDY’S PLACE: Windsor