Pandora

In Greek mythology, Pandora was entrusted with a jar or box yet told to never open it. Inevitably, she opened the box and unleashed 7 evils on the world. Yet one thing remained, hope. As this first week of advent concludes, it is a time to reflect one last time on this theme of hope. The topics this week were heavy and uncomfortable. Yet there would be no need for Christmas if there was no need for hope and a Savior. We must acknowledge the human condition in order to have any hope of changing it.

We can't hope without acknowledging that something is wrong and needs to change. Hope for better things can be a strong motivator to keep going when things get difficult. Yet at times it's difficult to hope. When we focus on the shadows, it's easy to lose hope. The magnitude of the problems are so great. And on an individual basis, we don't make much of an impact.

But one of the beauties of humanity is what happens when we join forces. The impact of unified effort can be exponential. We must never lose hope. This advent, look for the light and actively seek ways to make a difference. Find others who also want to make a difference. Find opportunities to be hope. Start small. A smile and a kind word. A letter in the mail. Listening to someone else's experiences. Find someone with different ideas and beliefs from your own and have a conversation. Not to argue and prove why you are right, but to find the elements that we have in common.

As you begin the new year, take time for reflection. Make sharing hope part of your routine. When you are making your goals and intentions, leave space for sharing hope.