Hope is the belief that no matter how tough things are right now, someday, in some way, things will get better. Easier. Less stressful.
January seems to be the right time of year to contemplate hope. Put aside resolutions this year (we never seem to keep them, anyway!) and think of your hopes. Invent ways to keep your hope alive even during the toughest of life’s challenges.
I’ve been contemplating hope a lot in the past year’s worth of struggles and joys, surprises and expectations, and some fun art (for my own soul) gifts (for my friends) came out of that meditation. The first project is a useful everyday item, as well as a spiritual reminder.
It seems that Breast Cancer has become more widespread and we all know someone who has been touched by this disease. I marvel constantly at how strong a lot of these women are and they inspire me. This project uses the “Hope is...” set Stampin’ Up! released this past fall.
These plaques will make a thoughtful gift “for no reason” for a friend or family member who may need a reminder that hope will help them survive the big and small challenges of every day.
Of course, don’t forget to make one for yourself! There’s a little niche in my home, on a wall in between two doors, where I hang my own reminders of Hope. I pass it many times a day, reminded almost every time of what keeps me going.
Whether it’s through journaling, meditation, a list of goals, or starting a support group of like-minded friends or colleagues, this month can be the time to lay the groundwork to cast out the doubts and fears about the future. All we really have is right now—this very moment, and we should use it to our advantage. Check your local retail store for products used in this article.
