Maintaining Hope

“When you die and meet God four questions will be asked of you: Did you make time for learning wisdom? Did you devote sufficient energy to your family? Did you conduct your business with integrity? Did you always maintain hope?” ― Talmud, Shabbat 31A, as quoted in Perennial Wisdom for the Spiritually Independent by Rabbi Rami Shapiro.

“Did you always maintain hope?” This question posed in the quote above struck me as a powerful call in these chaotic days.  I find hope is as necessary for my health and peace of mind right now as sacred pauses are.

Hope is often maligned as wishful thinking; however, in her book Mystical Hope, Rev. Dr. Cynthia Bourgeault speaks of hope as an abiding wellspring within that is a source of connection to God. I’m looking forward to asking Rabbi Rami Shapiro to speak to the deeper meaning of hope in the Jewish religion when he’s with us on Sunday afternoon, August 2nd.

In the meantime, I’m envisioning the comet NEOWISE, streaking across the sky right now, showering us with new (neo) wisdom (something I heard that I’m passing on to you). That idea makes me smile and fills me with hope. What gives you hope?

May you seek and find signs of hope within and all around you and may the power of hope bring you peace.