Reflections

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  1. Cathie
    Cathie
    2 days ago

    What always supports hope in me – now and in past times- is the adage, “This too shall pass…”
    When I feel injustice personally, globally, politically, or legally, I know the situation will pass or evolve and hope springs eternal:)
    It may sound trite but it is not if you hang on to that thought as your life-line.
    In the worst times of my life, I was able to believe that things would change and that belief provided me peace and hope.

  2. D
    Deann
    2 days ago

    My children are happy. Even when life doesn’t go the way the expect they have a quiet confidence and faith. People make comments about the younger generation yet the ones I know are so excepting of “ different”, have more knowledge of the importance of mental health and strive to do good… to me that is hope

    1. Joseph
      Joseph McCann
      2 days ago

      Yes Deann, our adult children, 36 & 37, are very accepting of “different”. Maybe because others are accepting of them. Including us🌞.

  3. sparrow51014
    sparrow
    2 days ago

    “To plant a garden
    is to believe in tomorrow.”
    ~ Audrey Hepburn

    I believe that hope dwells in the hearts of all gardeners,
    or we wouldn’t bother to plant.
    Tending to my garden
    enlivens my soul,
    and dreams begin to form as seeds go into the earth.
    My mind grows fertile with hope . . .
    hope for the plants that will come up in their time,
    and the belief
    that I will be leaving my little patch of ground
    a better place than I found it.
    I want to be a good steward
    so I bathe the new plantings with fish emulsion and water,
    waking them up with a good drink . . .
    nourishing them
    nourishes me,
    and I believe that when the season is ripe,
    that my neighbors fill find a little joy
    when they look out of their windows.

    The garden
    and the birds and other wildlife
    instill hope in me,
    as they go about the business of living . . .
    collecting nuts and seeds for winter’s feeding,
    all the while,
    the world out there
    where people live
    continues to try its best to decimate this beautiful planet.

    I’ve read
    when cities become abandoned
    for one reason or another,
    Nature moves back in,
    and I think it is true . . .
    when we bought our little shangri-la 13 years ago
    vines had already started
    to make their way into the house,
    finding cracks between windows and stones and bricks.
    It had been uninhabited for ten years.

    So I stick with the natural world to find my hope,
    and with the people I know who have goodness in their hearts,
    including all of you in this sacred space.

    You give me Hope. ♥

    1. H
      Heatherhoney
      1 day ago

      I am a gardener too!! I grow Veggies to give away. Drives my husband nuts!! Mission accomplished on both fronts. 😀

      1. sparrow51014
        sparrow
        22 hours ago

        🙂

    2. Joseph
      Joseph McCann
      2 days ago

      “with the people I know have goodness in their hearts,” There are many among us. Their light is always visible even if faint.
      Thank you dear Sparrow.

      1. sparrow51014
        sparrow
        2 days ago

        ”There are many among us. Their light is always visible even if faint.”

        Yes, dear Joseph,
        and thank you. ♥

  4. Carla
    Carla
    2 days ago

    I’m keeping it very simple right now, as I have a cold effecting my respiratory system. This overtook me on Wednesday. My hope is, that I AM starting to feel a little better. Yeah! I enjoyed todays photo and quote. Weekend Blessings to all. 🍁I’m headed to get another mug of hot lemon honey water

    1. Michele
      Michele
      23 hours ago

      Wishing you a speedy recovery, Carla

    2. Joseph
      Joseph McCann
      2 days ago

      Healing thoughts your way dear Carla.

    3. Robin Ann
      Robin Ann
      2 days ago

      Hope you feel better soon, my son has been sick with a bad sore throat for days.

    4. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      I hope that soon
      you will be feeling better,
      dear Carla . . . ♥

  5. Barb C
    Barb C
    2 days ago

    This morning some brown birds, possibly finches, fluffed their feathers and hopped about in the funny “Dr. Seuss” tree outside my window, named that because it’s dome-shaped and we keep it sheared off in a straight line below so it doesn’t drag onto the deck. Yesterday I heard a songbird calling, and a few times in my walks the last week I’ve heard frogs croaking. The little lives around me give me hope for all of us.

    Reading about the spirit of those who continue to protest, like the tens of thousands of people at the climate conference in Brazil and the people in the US standing up when ICE comes to town, gives me hope that we can come through these dark hours. My city’s elected officials and police department have committed that they don’t help, they don’t cooperate, when someone comes to kidnap our neighbors.

    A couple of quotations:

    In the face of horrors visited upon our world daily, in the struggle to protect our loved ones, choosing to let in joy is a revolutionary act. Joy returns us to everything that is good and beautiful and worth fighting for.
    — Valarie Kaur

    Life is a hard battle anyway. If we laugh and sing a little as we fight the good fight of freedom, it makes it all go easier. I will not allow my life’s light to be determined by the darkness around me.
    — Sojourner Truth

    1. H
      Heatherhoney
      1 day ago

      💔

    2. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      ”The little lives around me give me hope for all of us.”

      Me too,
      dear Barb.

      ps. The town near where I live
      is also standing up for its inhabitants,
      for which I am very grateful.

      1. Joseph
        Joseph McCann
        2 days ago

        I went to Alamosa with my lovely wife today and there were folks protesting ICE and the Pres, along with his administration (cronies?). The effect of totalitarianism has reached all spots of the good ole USA. Hope.

        1. sparrow51014
          sparrow
          2 days ago

          !!!

  6. pkr29022
    pkr
    2 days ago

    My upcoming trip to warmer temps to spend time with my Sister. We have not seen each other in a long time. I have hope that our “reconciliation” will be positive for both of us.
    I have surrendered this visit to a higher power. So much is out of my control.
    I am only responsible for my attitude, my actions & reactions, my words & not hers.
    I have hope that this is the right thing to do at this time. 🙏🏻✨
    🕊️♥️

    1. Michele
      Michele
      23 hours ago

      Wishing you a positive upcoming trip to see your sister- sending positive energy your way PKR

    2. H
      Heatherhoney
      1 day ago

      I hope your gratefulness is your armor, your pillow and your paintbrush through your visit. It sounds like you have some fears and a lot of courage and love ❤️ 🙏 You sound like a wonderful open hearted sister.

      1. pkr29022
        pkr
        23 hours ago

        Thank you HeatherHoney for your thoughtful response. I will try to remember my gratefulness is my armor. 😊♥️

    3. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      I have hope,
      dear PKR,
      for you and your sister . . .
      unfortunately,
      covid took my brother
      before we could fully reconcile. ♥

    4. Barb C
      Barb C
      2 days ago

      Wishing you a positive spirit for whatever comes of this, PKR.

      I’ve also had a long silence between a family member and myself that recently entered a tentative re-establishment of communication. I try to accept it for what it is, not give energy to what might be since that won’t change the outcome.

      1. pkr29022
        pkr
        23 hours ago

        Thank you kindly for your wishes Barb. Yes, family dynamics are tricky.
        I wish you well with yours too.♥️

    5. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      I send my hopes and best wishes with you,
      dear PKR. ♥

      1. pkr29022
        pkr
        23 hours ago

        Thank you dear Sparrow. ♥️

  7. Charlie T
    Charlie T
    2 days ago

    The new dawn gives me hope. Fighting back gives me hope. Knowing that we are here for just a moment and there’s a cosmic cycle for everything, gives me hope.

    1. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

    2. Barb C
      Barb C
      2 days ago

      I just read a quote from Sojourner Truth that fits your comment, Charlie. “Life is a hard battle anyway. If we laugh and sing a little as we fight the good fight of freedom, it makes it all go easier. I will not allow my life’s light to be determined by the darkness around me.”

  8. Carol Ann Conner
    Carol Ann Conner
    2 days ago

    Br David, this site and those who staff it and the vulnerability and willingness of all who share their answers to the daily question. I’m so grateful for you all. You raise me up! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oni0tO_HN30&list=RDoni0tO_HN30&start_radio=1

    1. pkr29022
      pkr
      2 days ago

      Thank you Carol Ann for sharing the link to “You Raise Me Up”. Brought a tear to my eye. Thank you for your kindness. Blessings to You. 🙏🏻♥️

    2. H
      Heatherhoney
      2 days ago

      The music gave me goosebumps- I LOVE goosebumps!!! 🙂

  9. H
    Heatherhoney
    2 days ago

    I have just finished a 3 month self directed counselor supported on line counselling program through Telus Health. It is where I was guided to this site. The course was intense and at times overwhelming especially in the beginning when I was experiencing panic attacks at work. I learned so much about myself- my values, my thinking and feelings. I learned new communication skills and ways of coping with stress as well as daily living practices to create more resilience. I still have most of the same on going issues in my life. The same grief, required letting go and need for self compassion and protection. December 1st I will be in a foreign country for 3 months with an addict who will not have their drug of choice. I lived this situation last year and its how I ended up needing help. I feel hope for these next 3 months and life ahead of that because of all I have learned about myself and a new TRUE love and understanding for myself. The grief I feel for my son’s absence has joined hands with acceptance and feels less heavy. My mind feels clearer and I feel empowered to be able to meet the challenges that might await. I actually feel like the luckiest woman alive which makes me laugh a little considering how I could look at things. I feel a new love for my husband and see miraculous changes in him acquired vicariously through the changes in me. I feel hopeful every time I come read the reflections to these questions. There is so much wisdom here for me to take in. There is such loving kindness here! I am so glad you all write your thoughts here. Thank you. ❤️‍🩹

    1. Joseph
      Joseph McCann
      2 days ago

      ❤️

    2. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      I will hold you,
      dear Heather,
      as well as the addict you will be ministering to.
      I’ve been one as well,
      so I know what you are up against,
      but feel that you have the strength and courage
      to do this
      with much love . . . ♥

      1. H
        Heatherhoney
        1 day ago

        Your words help me feel strong and supported. Thank you 😊

    3. Barb C
      Barb C
      2 days ago

      Please stay connected to us through the challenging months ahead, HeatherHoney. Glad to read what you share.

      1. H
        Heatherhoney
        1 day ago

        Thank you. There is a connectedness here that lifts me towards my potential here. I find contemplating these reflections and reading other’s reflections really fortifies me. I definitely will keep coming here.

    4. Christina Rossi75270
      Christina
      2 days ago

      Welcome Heatherhoney! Thanks for adding to the wisdom here.💕

    5. pkr29022
      pkr
      2 days ago

      🙏🏻♥️🤗

    6. Carol Ann Conner
      Carol Ann Conner
      2 days ago

      “I actually feel like the luckiest woman alive which makes me laugh a little considering how I could look at things.” What a beautiful witness to the meaning of hope. Thank you.

  10. Robin Ann
    Robin Ann
    2 days ago

    A beautiful sunny day! Planning my trip to Florida to see my daughter and grandson at the end of January lifts my spirits and gives me hope 🌞💕

  11. Michele
    Michele
    2 days ago

    The start of a brand new day 🙂

    I am enjoying a cup of new Balinese coffee my daughter brought back for me. I am having my annual Oktoberfest dinner this evening as October flew by and with everyone’s schedules it did not work out then. My sauerbraten has been marinating all week, can’t wait!

    Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend 🙂

    1. Carol Ann Conner
      Carol Ann Conner
      2 days ago

      MIchele, It sounds like a wonderful day of caring and sharing! Sending loving energy to your festivities!

    2. Robin Ann
      Robin Ann
      2 days ago

      Love German food! Enjoy

  12. Yram
    Yram
    2 days ago

    That I got up this morning! The kindness of workers in different establishments. The postal worker was so patient with me as I picked out different stamps.

    1. Cathie
      Cathie
      2 days ago

      I love picking out stamps too Yram! – I try to match the stamps to the event or season, or I try to find something new and different that moves me.
      Sometimes I waffle on which ones to select, and the agent is very patient with me too.

    2. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      Perhaps it’s because I live a pretty isolated life,
      dear Yram,
      but like you,
      I take notice of the kindness of the service people I encounter as well.
      They give me hope.

    3. Carol Ann Conner
      Carol Ann Conner
      2 days ago

      YRAM, You have such a deep awareness and sensitivity toward everything and everyone that crosses your path. I’m so glad you come here each day. It brings me joy.

  13. Christina Rossi75270
    Christina
    2 days ago

    The many gifts of which I am the recipient.

  14. Anita
    Anita
    2 days ago

    There is a universal prayer said at 6:30 am EST or 7:30 am EST Monday – Friday on Zoom for PEACE and LOVE for ALL PEOPLE ALL OVER THE WORLD. The prayer originated from Indonesia and is translated into English. ALL are welcome.

    I also wrote a bit on my blogsite and am sharing it here with all of you: https://calledtowrite.org/2025/11/15/with-love-gratitude/

    May each of you continue to share your LOVE and GRATITUDE.

    1. Patti
      sunnypatti
      23 hours ago

      Beautiful! I love the NC mountains and look forward to being in them over Thanksgiving 💚

    2. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      Your post was beautiful,
      dear Anita,
      and the photo
      is drop dead gorgeous! ♥

    3. Barb C
      Barb C
      2 days ago

      What a GORGEOUS photo you took for that post!

      Do you have a link to the prayer site? I’d like to read it.

    4. Robin Ann
      Robin Ann
      2 days ago

      I love what you wrote- thank you for sharing “Hope”

  15. J
    John
    2 days ago

    My wife and I spoke about this sort of thing last night around the fire table.
    Her question about herself was whether she was having an impact in her work as a CASA here in Arizona: she volunteers as an advocate for a child in the “system” of foster care. She often feels inadequate to the task, or that the system isn’t working well, or that her contribution is minuscule, all in the face of her several hours a week on the phone or visiting with her current child in question.
    The foster care system is woefully underfunded, and there are far too few people willing to do this sort of “grunt work” as a volunteer.
    But her questioning of her impact flies in the face of the fact that the kids she advocates for nearly all text her or call her and look forward to her visits, and my wife knows it. Her impact is likely not to surface for several months or years, and I tried to assure her that it will happen.
    Me, I volunteer to teach reading at the 2nd and 3rd grade level here. The kids are sponges! They almost universally want so much to please this grey haired old man. And they are fun, smart, and engaging. This is one thing that gives me hope.

    1. sparrow51014
      sparrow
      2 days ago

      Thank you,
      dear John . . . ♥

    2. Carol Ann Conner
      Carol Ann Conner
      2 days ago

      Just reading your post gives me hope for the lives of the children you both help…such important work that makes their lives hopeful and better.

      1. Barb C
        Barb C
        2 days ago

        +1!

    3. Robin Ann
      Robin Ann
      2 days ago

      Thank you John for sharing and the volunteer work that you and your wife do. I work with Medicaid enrollment and it breaks my heart when I see a baby born into a DCFY system. However, I also see many babies/Children going from DCYF to subsidized adoptions 😊

    4. Patti
      sunnypatti
      2 days ago

      You and your wife are doing such important work. Thank you!

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