Hope is a verb and a noun. It is something we have (hope) and something we do (hopeful). Realistic hope is the belief and perspective that there is a future and that things can change. Hope says “Things can be different, even better.” Hope exists when you hold a confident expectation about the future. It is not a delusion or unrealistic refusal to face facts. Hope is confidence in the things that the natural eye cannot see. Some say they discover hope in their faith. Faith can offer discouraged hearts new hope.

Are you HOPEFUL or NOT SO HOPEFUL?

Ask yourself, “Am I hopeful about:

  1. The world around me?
  2. My health?
  3. My relationships?
  4. My future?
  5. My faith?
  6. My family’s security?
  7. My caregiver’s wellbeing?"

If you checked, “Not So Hopeful” next to any item above you may want to ask yourself the following questions:

  1. What do I want to see happen regarding this issue?
  2. What will this part of my life look like when I feel a renewed hopefulness?
  3. What part of changing this is my responsibility?
  4. Who can I get to help me move from “Not so Hopeful” to “Hopeful” in this area?
  5. What resources are available that I will seek out and activate in my life?
  6. Must things work out according to my plan and schedule?
  7. Can I release this issue or concern and relax?
  8. How can my faith or spirituality impact this concern in my life?

 

Finding someone to talk to about these things is a good idea. A friend, a spiritual leader or a professional counselor are possibilities.