HOPE
I thought I knew what hope is until I had to define it and put it into words, and now I have to ponder. Hope, faith, and love are elusive concepts—I know it when I feel it. Hope is delicate and mysterious. Hope is deeper than mere optimism. Hope is believing that things will work out—that there will be a better world. It helps me get through whatever trial I may be experiencing. If I stop and still my soul, I remember how I have weathered difficulties in the past, and I have survived. By recalling these times, I am able to remain calm and peaceful. It is important to develop and cultivate hope. By doing so, I can foster determination and grit, and an ability to bounce back. I can then remain determined despite failures and setbacks. As I survive each trial, I become stronger and more confident that I will make it through the next time.
Hope looks forward, not backward. Hope remains in the present and looks for the future. I cannot hope for a better past. The past is in the rear view mirror. Hope can give energy to my soul. I hope for a better new year—one where restrictions will be lifted and I can be with friends and family again. COVID-19 is merely a place holder for something greater that is to come. It just has not been revealed to us yet. I love the snow, but I do hope it will eventually melt and that spring will come. There is great assurance that is true. At times when I have lost hope, I can feel deep despair. I try not to go down that rabbit hole, but turn to find inspiration in the words or deeds of others.
Music, poetry, and faith also help to boost my hope. Likewise, I can offer hope to those who are in despair or are experiencing fear and uncertainty.
LIFE IS A TWISTED ROAD
Life is a twisted road dominated by unexpected twists and turns,
—Monica Partridge
However, at the end of the day, it is from them that we learn,
And in spite of being so hard to cross,
The flame of hope always bright and strong,
For as long as hope reigns, nothing can go wrong.
– Reflection provided by Mary Anne Totten, CPE Intern