My life of conversation leads me to reimagine the very meaning of hope. I define hope as distinct from optimism or idealism. It has nothing to do with wishing. It references reality at every turn and reveres truth. It lives open eyed and wholeheartedly with the darkness that is woven ineluctably into the light of life and sometimes seems to overcome it. Hope, like every virtue, is a choice that becomes a habit that becomes spiritual muscle memory.
In her exploration of hope, Krista Tippett distinguishes it from mere optimism or idealism, emphasizing that hope is rooted in reality rather than wishful thinking. She asserts that true hope acknowledges the darkness inherent in life while simultaneously embracing the light, suggesting a profound relationship with truth and authenticity.
Tippett describes hope as a deliberate choice that, when practiced, develops into a habitual response, akin to spiritual muscle memory. This approach implies that hope is an active engagement with life’s complexities, enabling individuals to confront challenges while remaining anchored in the possibility of transformation and resilience.