Springtime is ripe to remember hope as the only option

As we continue to journey through this pandemic, it pains me to write about it two years later. Uncertainty is a part of life. Sometimes it is great, and sometimes it is small. We are living through challenging times, and change is inevitable.

Yet, springtime has come. In faith, spring symbolizes a time of growth, a time of renewal and a time of hope. If we are open to it, it can be a pivotal time in our lives to pause and reflect on where we have been and where we are going.

During these challenging times, we have to remind ourselves to choose hope and choose to celebrate. Most importantly, we need to pause, to reflect, to have faith and to keep moving forward.

I challenge you to pause and reflect, to choose hope and continue to celebrate the smallest high points in life. The essence of hope will carry you to keep this world moving forward.

As an educator, I reflect on my students. To my students – you gave me a reason as an educator to get up every day to provide you with the tools you needed to not just survive but to thrive. Now that you have journeyed through this unprecedented time, I know in my heart you will continue to make it with faith, and this gives me hope for the future. You are our future, and we are counting on you.

As a human being, I reflect on who makes me who I am. To my loved ones, you accepted me in my faith to get up each day and to celebrate life. Even in these uncertain times, we have cheered each other on with faith and hope.

This is humanity at its finest; it is where the joy lies! Jesus, others and you! It is about the balance and harmony we create together, to make the world a better place on the other side.

Hope is the only option. How do you restore hope? It is not something that is done alone. We do this collectively in our faith and through our reflections in life. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).

Lord, hear our prayers, as we continue on this path, which is your will. We come before you today in need of hope. There are times when we feel hopeless; there are times when we feel weak. In these times, we pray for hope. We need hope for a better life and for a better future. Help us to walk in your light, and live life in your faith and glory.

Kristy Solis grew up in Meraux, where she still resides with her family. She has practiced as a registered nurse and a family nurse practitioner. Currently, she serves as a nursing faculty member with the University of Holy Cross. Kristy’s husband serves in the U.S. Army.