There is growing frustration among Americans. From town halls to rallies and protests, the crowds are growing in size and energy every week. We are anxious and afraid—and not without just cause. 

Layoffs in public and private sectors, persistent unemployment and underemployment, a growing economy that feels increasingly unstable, the future of social security and Medicare is in doubt, and the undermining of civil and human rights education, accountability, and policies are just some of the worrying trends in the news today. While some appear to benefit in these times, the rest are rapidly falling behind and hopelessness is on the rise. 

There is nothing partisan about our collective reality—progress is under threat. If you’re invested in your family, friendships, or making the world a better place through your vocation and community involvement, belief in a secure future is challenging in these times. This isn’t pessimistic thinking or political talking points, it’s the reality on the ground. It’s time for a vision of hope we can all believe in.

Hope is not shallow or apathetic, it’s deep and contagious. Hope refuses to extinguish light by darkening the dreams of tomorrow because of its core beliefs. When we change our beliefs, we change our vision of the future.

The Five Beliefs of Hope:

1. Hope believes in goodness.

We are created in goodness and for goodness. Humanity’s capacity for kindness, beauty, and integrity is unending and wonderfully refreshing when expressed and found in each other. Hope believes we are at our best when we unlock the potential for goodness in our world.

2. Hope believes in belonging.

We are absolute and interconnected. Humanity is a unified and shared experience across space and time where inclusion and equity are superior to fabricated labels, status, and bias. Hope believes everyone, everywhere has an unalienable purpose and right to belong.

3. Hope believes in empowerment.

We are co-creators and co-stewards of our world. Humanity leverages the organic, social, emotional, and physical systems around us with surprising creativity and ingenuity. Hope believes every person has the power to change their lives and their world for the better.

4. Hope believes in possibility.

We are dreamers and storytellers. Humanity is endlessly moved by the narratives of our past and visions of a better tomorrow. Hope believes in new possibilities—an alternative reality that inspires change in us and each other.

5. Hope believes in transcendence.

We are spiritual and expectant beings. Humanity possesses an ability to “go beyond” the here and now through spiritual experiences, expression, and inspiration for guidance and peace. Hope believes in the intrinsic connectedness of our species and the capacity to reveal our unique calling in life as a humble gift to the world.

Belief is the wellspring of hope. When we think rightly, we’ll fuel and lead a renewed movement of hope. This is the way to a better tomorrow.

Hope and Justice For All

If you’re like me, you’re looking for compassionate hearts and rational minds in our chaotic world. Hope, change, and justice for everyone, everywhere require thoughtfulness, dedication, and courage to values-based living and leading. I believe that for myself—and for you. Will you join me in this consequential cause? You won’t find ads, paywalls, partner links, or random emails from me. I’m not for sale, and neither are you. However, this work does require support, and with your help, can remain accessible and uninterrupted. Please consider making a donation to keep weekly insights for hope and change available to you and others. Thank you!