7 Characteristics of Hope

Hope lights a candle instead of cursing the darkness.

Hope opens doors where despair closes them.

Hope looks for the good in people instead of harping on
the worst in them.

Hope discovers what can be done instead of grumbling
about what cannot be done.

Hope draws its power from a deep trust in God and the
basic goodness of mankind.

Hope regards problems, small or large, as chances to
discover new blessings.

Hope cherishes no illusions, nor does it yield to
cynicism.



"Action and reaction, ebb and flow, trial and error,
change -- this is the rhythm of living. Out of our
overconfidence, fear; out of our fear, clearer vision,
fresh hope. And out of hope, progress."



"The pure, the bright, the beautiful
that stirred our hearts in youth,
The impulses to wordless prayer,
The streams of love and truth,
The longing after something lost,
The spirit's longing cry,
The striving after better hopes--
These things can never die."


Hope is much more than a positive attitude. Hope is
an essential attitude of expectancy filled with
potential. As Erik Erikson suggested in today's
quote, hope is an indispensable, life-sustaining
virtue.

Hope is a fundamental ingredient for accomplishment.
Henry Ward Beecher called hope "the greatest
architect". That's a great way to view hope--as an
architect of our tomorrows.

George Washington Carver wrote, "Where there is
no vision, there is no hope." Yet we must be willing to
give something in return. Benjamin Franklin cautioned
that a person who "lives on nothing but hope will die
fasting."

A farmer wouldn't plant the first seed if he or she did
not hope for a harvest. However, the farmer plans
extensively and works very hard all through the year.

Hope calls forth a thrilling vision that nurtures and
sustains action-building enthusiasm. It reminds us of
the reason for our dreams, guides our plans, and
supports the actions that turn our dreams into reality.

Think of all the time and resources you've invested in
your future. What is something you hope will happen for
you? Notice the image that your hope brings to mind.

Hold onto your hopes and treat them with special care.
Living hopes yield living dreams. When your faith is
strong, and your hands are ready, you will know that
your hopes helped to carry you every step of the way.


Wishing you blessings and success! :-)