“Enlightened” is that show that comes on after “Girls” — and in many ways, it’s a counterpart to Lena Dunham’s show that’s equally sincere.

Starring Laura Dern and created, directed and written by Mike White, “Enlightened” delivers sincere, humorous, heartbreaking and brutally honest episodes every week and does so without a hint of the cynicism that seems to be dominating mainstream television programming.

“Enlightened” follows Amy Jellicoe (Dern), an optimistic and intense woman who returns to work for her old company after a mental breakdown landed her in rehab. She wants nothing more than to do good in the world, help the environment and spread positive energy, but she is constantly alienated by her friends, co-workers, ex-husband and even her mother, with whom she still lives.

Amy could so easily be a punch line or a satirical character, but White’s emotional, reflective writing and Dern’s superb acting prevent us from sympathizing with those who misunderstand her character. Amy wholeheartedly believes everything she says and does, which makes it impossible to mock her, except maybe when things don’t work out the way she plans. Even then, as we are laughing, our hearts break along with Amy’s as she lets the tears flow. We may not always like Amy, but all that matters is that she stands up for what she thinks is right.

In an age when it’s cool to be mean, “Enlightened” is a show about a person with so much sincere passion that we can’t help but stand up and cheer her on.

— Ife Olujobi