Hope…
Slogging through life is not without its challenges. Some slogs are easier than others. I am amazed at what keeps people moving forward. There are so many roadblocks to success and so many ways to fail. In spite of it, mankind keeps moving forward through the muck of disappointment. What is it that keeps hope alive and reappearing against all odds and outcomes? The world ozzes hopelessness, struggle, and the apparent “doomed to failure.” Refugee camps, fire, floods, storms, political gridlock, and the insane belief in lies. Still, there is that glimmer of hope and belief that we can and will make it better. The incredible people I know who start businesses, develop their artistry and become better teachers solely for the purpose of helping and giving to others. The hopeful spirit drives them to better themselves through the practice of their art and passion. It’s always a rough day and yet!! ——- you know who you are because you are the ones that are always hopeful. Religion has captured that essence of hope and a positive outcome better than most disciplines. However they are not the only ones. Founders of companies, actors, scientists, researchers on and on capture and retain the hope of a positive outcome. Sports teams and individuals who have actually lost are able to regain that sense of hope for the next game or the next season.. The unwillingness to accept that the outcome is not going to be good.
I like Thanksgiving. It is a day of thanks and hope. No presents are required. No rushing around buying stuff to make up for the failures of the past. No list, no squandering money on the sweater you will never wear. I just have to make dinner. Thanksgiving is just a chance to sit down together where ever together is and give thanks in whatever way you wish to be thankful. There are no set rules, no specific ritual just a pause to give thanks. Maybe all we should be thankful for is our inability to give up. Give thanks for our unwillingness to accept failure. I am thankful for the people in my life who support me and think that I have something to offer. I am thankful that they believe so strongly in themselves and their achievements. I am thankful they ignored my advice to do something else that was more immediate. I am thankful they still are willing to listen. It is not our things, our success, or failure, it is an incredible hope that surrounds us every day. It is that which picks us up and drives us forward. Hope is our guide and our comfort and what I am most thankful.
Could I have a drumstick, please?