Families feel the complexities of today’s world. For example, there are many positive everyday circumstances, such as supportive relationships, exciting learning experiences (including academic and other accomplishments), children’s developmental gains, welcoming community activities, opportunities to play, and the splendor of each new season. However, realistically, we live in a time of geopolitical unrest, economic uncertainties, climate change, and other challenges. Families can help buoy each other through difficulties, and assist with problem solving, yet there are inevitably situations, and feelings (such as worry, confusion, or fear), that can be hard to navigate. Hope is a soothing directional force, a motivator, and a gift we can share with one another.
THE IMPORTANCE OF HOPE
My cousin is an excellent English teacher. She wrote to me about the importance of hope, and she shared a poem (Hope Is the Thing with Feathers) which she finds comforting. I chatted with her about the poem’s author, Emily Dickinson (1830-1886). The reclusive poet wrote over 1700 pieces, although very few of her works were published during her lifetime. Later, once the full breadth of her work was discovered, it captured the attention and imagination of readers worldwide. Dickinson was not celebrated; she never saw the strong impact her stark imagery had across generations. Yet, even now, her powerful and unique poetry helps people cope during harsh times. Her four words, “I dwell in possibility” reflect the belief that there are always steps one can take—a hopeful path one can create and then choose to follow, independently or with others.
BEYOND POETRY
Poetry is just one form of creative expression that can convey hope. There are songs, plays, movies, paintings, stories, speeches, picture books, and more that can help bolster resolve, imbue optimism, and give people of all ages the edge and desire they need to succeed. Plus, there are other strengths that often intersect with hope—for example, determination (the willingness to persevere and put forth effort); curiosity (the desire to be resourceful, inquisitive, and to know more); initiative (a “get going” approach); and resilience (the ability to overcome setbacks). There’s gratification in striving—that is, to purposefully embark upon a journey and see it through by setting and pursuing goals, engaging in problem-solving, and making discoveries along the way. That’s hope in action!
WHAT ABOUT PRIORITIES?
Everyone has their own set of priorities. What people hope (or pray) for may change over time. Maybe it has to do with well-being. Or forgiveness. Or courage. Or love. Or the unexpected. Moreover, a parent’s priorities might be quite different from those of their children. My close lifelong friend told me she makes it a point to focus on her priorities, which are health, family, and friends. Her strongest wish, even in challenging times, is to “find the goodness in the status quo.” As life unfurls, there are problems, hurdles and learning curves, but she believes there are also opportunities, and something positive to be grasped and cherished within the here and now to help inform and benefit the future. It’s another form of hope.
LAST WORDS
My cousin shared something else that really resonated for me. She said she’s learned to appreciate “the importance of a functional mind and a wonderful reality.” Indeed, how lucky are those of us who have the capacity to think clearly, and to communicate freely. And, how fortunate are those whose reality is safe and secure, enhanced by the beauty of nature and supported by nurturing relationships. These functions and realities may not always be the norm in this ever-fluctuating world, but they ARE something families can encourage one another to realize, and hope for, too.
AUTHOR’S NOTE
Here is a link to the poem, Hope Is the Thing with Feathers. by Emily Dickinson.
https://poets.org/poem/hope-thing-feathers-254
For more on hope, check out my interview with Dr. Matt Zakreski.
https://joannefoster.ca/hope-interview-with-dr-matt-zakreski/
This article on Being Consciously Upbeat has a hopeful vibe, and practical tips.
