Hope

           

"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness."

Desmond Tutu

Preparation for safety and stability does not remove us from the path of darkness. It may ease our passage, but hope helps us withstand challenges. Like a guiding light, hope distracts us from falling deeper into night shades. It is like a bit of fresh air washing over us and lifting our heavy thoughts.

At a young age, we learn of hope and it is carried with us into our adult years. It touches our emotions and gently sweeps anxiety away. There are times hope becomes our only lifeline. If we do not recognize our guidance nor actively pursue correction, we sink to the bowels of despair. Thankfully, hope is there.

Hope is a reprieve or an abundant boost available to all peoples. It may take on different disguises, but it is available to all. As an unrestricted bright light, it offers warmth to an isolated cold environment or a boost in Divine connection. It is an instant connection with non-descript energy carrying us on our way. 

 

Towards the Light

"Hope is being able to see that there is light

despite all of the darkness."

Desmond Tutu

Darkness surrounds us and therein we learn lessons, visions, and insights. One must remember, however, to look up towards the light as it is the destination we are meant to achieve. Gathering life experiences in the dark, enhances the experience of living in the light.  

In the midst of darkness, a quiet presence can be instrumental in grasping what is to be learned. Whether a nod from a spirit guide, a gentle touch from a friend, or words of wisdom, we receive support. It is helpful to be touched by hope as we remember we are not in this alone.

When we fall back into darkness, we must cast our eyes up towards the light. For it is the light that reminds us that we are worthy of relationships where we can be accepted and loved. Through connection with those who are filled with light, we begin to see our lovely reflection once again.     

In Our Own Skin

"Belonging is a strong and natural human need,

like food and shelter."

Desmond Tutu

It is a false belief that we must alter who we are in order to be accepted. We might think so little of ourselves that we believe it is impossible to fit in. When we are dependent upon others for a sense of belonging, our sense of security waffles with the smallest movement. Without being grounded within, we will topple and fall.

When diligent about unpacking our baggage and healing our scars, we become comfortable in our own skin. We are more apt to be open to diversity while stretching our knowledge about the self and others. When a sense of home and belonging exists within we can be less dependent upon others.

As our strengths are discovered and utilized, the need to change for the sake of blending in dissipates. While humbly being the best we can be, we begin to attract like minded souls who support and encourage us. Living as an authentic human being, we can enjoy our solitude and engage with others while unfolding into a higher sense of self.

 

Little Bit of Goodness

"Do your little bit of goodness where you are;

it's those little bits of good put together that

overwhelm the world."

Desmond Tutu

 When I look at people, I see inner goodness and tend to focus upon it.  We are all born with this spark of light and we either build upon it or not.  I am often drawn to those who have hidden their light.  I instinctively know it is there, but it has been buried beneath chosen debris.  Exchanging conversations in depth,  the hardness cracks and shards of warm light begin to peek out.  I catch a glimpse of the goodness within.

Individuals soften when they experience inner goodness again.  They are reminded of moments of compassion, courage, and hope.  Unfortunately, life has treated them with extreme harshness and in defense, he or she hides goodness by wearing a false bravado.  The bravado may succeed in warning off bad things, but it stifles the light as well.  It is even more unfortunate when life becomes so brutal it generates total withdrawal in fear. Without protection from life itself, one hovers in a dark and stagnant existence.

It is a spiritual challenge for me to face a fellow human being and discover a thread of conversation leading back to when the heart was open. To reflect my inner light to an individual, emotions will stir and hopefully trigger the desire to realign emotional reality.  First comes the smile, then a genuine laugh, and then a nugget of an earlier personality.  As sincere appreciation for this child of God, I attempt to hold the heart open long enough to allow original identity and yearnings to surface.  A reflection of our inner goodness uplifts us all.