Friends,
The time between Christmas and the New Year can be odd as a teacher. The excitement of Christmas has ended, but there’s time before we return to routines. The space in between has me reflecting on the concept of hope.
I’m someone who thinks critically and feels deeply. In the midst of adversity, I’ve always seemed to have this innate ability to remain hopeful. My resilience undoubtedly comes from a heart rooted in faith. The process of overcoming is simultaneously overwhelming and amazing. Sometimes, I find myself overly concerned with the burdens of life. It can be easy to compare myself to the rest of the world. Each time this happens, I'm surely not enough. Then I pause to consider that maybe my disability isn’t the trait that is meant to set me apart from the rest of the world. My ability to endure with overwhelming hope means so much more than the challenges I face. It seems the older people become, the more hope has a tendency to be perceived as childish or naive. For me, hope is just a steadfast commitment to the promises of my faith.
Honestly, the circumstances of the year had me afraid that I may have lost my unwavering hope. The world is at war. Loved ones faced grief and turmoil that I couldn’t fix. Life just felt unsteady. Some days it was even physically more challenging to navigate the world. You should not carry the burdens of life alone. This advice led me to ask a faithful mentor what to do when the world tries to steal your joy and hope. I was met with unforgettable words of wisdom. “The more we focus on God’s hope for our life the greater that hope becomes. This doesn’t mean that life won’t happen. It will. It will just hurt less because our focus is different.” This is a lesson in perspective. Look for hope and you’ll find it.
At Christmas a dear mentor gifted me the most beautiful Christmas ornament of a willow tree. It was the perfect gift for a season of life that at times felt full of uncertainty. Willow trees often symbolize growth and healing. I’m not a tree expert, but brief research taught me that in nurturing environments the willow trees can grow quickly and have steady roots. These trees are valuable in nature because they protect land from erosion. There is plenty of weather in life. Perseverance gives life meaning. It’s important to be surrounded by supportive people. People who help you turn struggle into strength. This is a lesson in perspective. Look for hope and you’ll find it.
There’s an old adage that says God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. As I consider what I’ve weathered this year I’m not so sure about that. Our hearts must be open to receiving the hope that is given to us. Hope isn’t naive. Hope is what helps make life remarkably beautiful in the midst of our heaviest burdens. A hopeful heart shifts our perspective.
As I set my sights on the year ahead, I’m thankful for those who help me thrive with the strength of a willow tree. I pray that there are always opportunities for me to share hope and be light.
Wishing you a Hopeful & Happy New Year!
Joyfully,
Julie
