Finding Hope in Trouble

In times of trouble, there are still ways to find hope!

Political controversies, the pandemic, crisis, mental health, disaster, fear, worry, anxiety, finances, and long-term effects of hard times seem to be the common language rolling off both our tongues and media platforms. Many days seem dark and challenging, particularly this time of year.   

Though the degrees of influence and effects may vary, everyone is touched by these trying times. And those who have lived lives of trials and trauma bear heavier weights than others. The number of deaths by suicide, reports of mental illness, social upheavals, and diminished connectedness may make it seem like America is in darkness.

But darkness is nothing more than the absence of light. Hope gives light.  And when we can find hope, the rooted belief that greater times can and will come, we become a resilient people in a resilient country that shines a strength as we have so many times in history.

A lot of us want to be there in a place of hope.  While acceptance is the first step towards healing and change, it is never the place to stop.  

I learned that as a foster child. Growing up in an abusive home led to a broken system, which resulted in a scattered process of life. All of that taught me that accepting how tough life is, truly is the first step in healing. Continuing through life and acknowledging my inner-strength in doing so, showed me how that first step is but a little one to what must follow in order to become the best version of myself—  a healed, inter-generational life changer, who believes in best lives for everyone.  

We all have the desire to feel stronger and more equipped in face of the challenges before us. What that really means is that we all desire to find hope that we can hold onto and sustain, and maybe even influence others with, in trials like those we are facing today.  If we don't give up, we can find ways to find that hope.