A friend reminds me of Ernst Shackleton. In Shackleton’s case, his tenacity in the Antartic when all hope seemed pointless was foundation for saving the lives of his crew, especially after his ship Endurance was lost to the ice. There were dark nights, when Shackleton seemed to waiver. Yet his will and belief never failed. In this case, history captures the ability to continue long after most would have let hope. With a smile, he presses on. With the will to take one more step, progress continues to be made when it seems impossible.
I wish I knew what to say on the dark days. I read David’s notes knowing that I had finally found the words. “You know all about it – the contempt, the abuse. I dare to believe that the luckless will get lucky someday in you. You won’t let them down: orphans won’t be orphans forever.” (Psalm 10.14) Even without my words, with a smile he presses on. I continue to watch with a sense that hope is always here. Our willingness to embrace the hope that is present, allows it to grow.
In the darkness of a new day, I can see a tropical storm sitting over the island. Lightening strikes paint a mysterious picture, outlined by clouds and sheets of rain. Metaphorically the storm reflects the challenges I see everywhere around me. Companies struggle to find their way in a world with growing uncertainties. Individuals are overwhelmed. Tragedies, pain, and even death occur in the lives of the innocent and undeserving.
I would be the last person to suggest that holding onto Hope it easy. It can be hard, very hard. I find the example of others that hold on encouraging. You and I can take one step at a time. As difficult as it might be, it is the best that we can do. It opens the door to possibilities. It encourages others. It is also the essence of the call we have to live life to the fullest.
Even in the darkness, I know the sun will return.
