Here’s Hoping

I feel reality is important, but not final. That thought works two ways. If I am winning and at the top, it gives me a clear understanding that may not be the case forever…so I enjoy it now and celebrate. But much more importantly, on those many occasions when I or my team come up short…well, I know that is also not permanent. There is HOPE that I, and we, can do better. Over the years, that “do better” has often been the case and led to victory down the road. It has given me evidence that Hope is important in my life…it keeps me going when there is not much additional light in the room.

I bring this up for a couple of reasons. First, I just heard an excellent sermon on Christmas Eve about Hope. Second, as I edge further and further into old age, I see how easy it gets to give up hope…and I see many of my best friends do just that…and give up. So, consider this a rallying cry. Accept the present and hope for a better future. The hope will lead you to do the work to make that future as you want it to be…not the future that would otherwise be handed to you.

For those of us who have had to protect themselves from a charging shark or maneuver out of harms way from a rampaging salt water crocodile (and haven’t we all had that experience at some point?)…there is a lesson in those encounters that is worth noting. If you can use your hand (if you still have one) or a camera housing or a stick to guide the big predators head away from you, their body will follow. That will often give you all the time you need to find the safety of a boat or duck behind one of your more expendable friends. Hope works the same way. If you can get your head to go in the direction you want to go in, the rest of you will follow. Let hope lead your way.

And while I am at it…the heck with reality. Hold onto hope when it may seem ridiculous to do so…when everyone else has actually given up. That…is when you win.

All religions understand the importance of hope. All good athletic coaches teach you to hope. Businesses set hopes into place as goals. There really is something to this idea…put something attractive out there on the horizon, do the work that will lead you that way…and good things are likely to happen. Don’t ever give up on the possibility of good things happening ahead…even when your present situation says it just ain’t so. Reality comes and goes. Hope is eternal.

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” –Helen Keller

I wish you a very Merry Christmas, happy holidays to one and all and the very best of New Year’s. I am hoping it will be a winner. Aloha.