Always Choose Hope
Once you choose hope, anything’s possible — Christopher Reeve
The past week has been full of fears, hopes and anticipation of the US election. As the results became clear, it gave us a glimpse of new possibilities and hope. On a larger scale, these few months have been difficult and dark for many. I find solace in knowing that I’m not the only one navigating through life changes and challenges.
It is indeed difficult to remain optimistic when all things seem to suggest otherwise, but I always remind myself that I want my choices to reflect my hopes, not my fears — as Nelson Mandela once said. I started drafting this piece a few days ago, and the news of a possible effective vaccine for Covid-19 hits exactly the point I wish to bring across.
I was even more fascinated by the story behind the team that drove the research, making this vaccine possible. It was sheer dedication and the power of remaining hopeful despite all circumstances. I’d like to think of us and our life as a lab experiment. We are constantly working with new variables as life changes and we are adjusting, and readjusting ourselves to reach the vision, career and lifestyle that we are seeking.
The process will involve many difficulties, frustration and points where we feel like giving up. But we need to find a good pace with ourselves, put in the work, and trust the process. I’ve been reminded this week to be patient with myself and the hopes and dreams I wish to accomplish as a young adult stepping into the world. Recently, I started to receive little messages from my readers, telling me how I inspired them. Back in March during lockdown, I found hope in writing, and it turned out to be a lot more.
You do not need to know precisely what is happening, or exactly where it is all going. What you need is to recognize the possibilities and challenges offered by the present moment, and to embrace them with courage, faith and hope. — Thomas Merton
I know the path of a creative is not easy, but it is full of purpose and hope. At times, my ‘life lab research’ feels like it’s on the brink of a breakthrough and I’ve figured out my life. But the next moment, I feel defeated, exhausted and everything seems out of reach. But I always find my way back through writing, journaling and creativity. In those moments, I look back at my notes, remember my WHY and know that possibilities lie ahead.
I’m practicing to be patient. I’m learning to enjoy the process, slow down and accept that answers will come. I may not be where I want to be yet, I may not be fully sufficient with my creative pursuits, but each day I inch a little closer to my dream. Each day I get a little clearer of what I want, each day I choose HOPE.
