in celebration of hope

life does not turn out the way we want it to be. it can sometimes be a disappointment - we are a disappointment - we tumble, we take the wrong path, we make mistakes, we wander from our path. Or things happen beyond our control - things pop up, circumstances occur, and rain would pour cruelly, indifferently on our parade. And yet this does not stop us. We continue to build. We dream dreams. We make plans. we look forward to the future, unscathed, seemingly innocent of past hurts and disappointments. We look to a brand new day, as if the oppression and the pain inflicted by the night never happened. with fresh vigor and strength, we pursue what is before us. how do we do this? how do we pick ourselves up? what is this that binds our shattered hearts and broken dreams and recast them as something new, like magic? what is this that refreshes our soul and weaves upon it pure light of joy and courage? it is hope.

it is hope that grants us the will, the strength, the courage to try again. It is hope that allows us to build once more, to dream once more, to look at the future, and not be afraid. It is hope that allows us, while respecting and remembering the lessons of the past, to look forward. hope is a promise. it is our nourishment in the midsts of hunger and lack. hope allows us a glimpse of what is beyond - what has been promised in eternity - a glorious day will come, we will meet Him, we will be with Him...and the thought of us stirs us...calls us...tells us...live life to the fullest. do not give up. do not despair. He is here, He will be with us.