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“A continual looking forward to the eternal world is not (as some modern people think) a form of escapism or wishful thinking,” wrote the lay theologian and children’s author CS Lewis in 1952. “Hope is one of the theological virtues . . . Aim at Heaven and you will get earth ‘thrown in’: aim at earth and you will get neither.”
The concept of hope as a virtue has been ingrained in Christian teachings since the time of Jesus’s apostle Paul and medieval theologian St Thomas Aquinas. It signifies a belief in a future good that is attainable with divine assistance. The core message of Easter, the resurrection of Jesus Christ, exemplifies the triumph of life over death, emphasizing that even in the darkest times, there is a possibility of light and new beginnings.
In today’s predominantly secular society, hopeful individuals are often viewed as naive or foolish, while cynicism and pessimism are praised as signs of intelligence and realism. However, research has shown that cultivating hope has significant psychological and physiological benefits, including a reduced risk of chronic illness and mortality.
Hope should not be confused with optimism. While optimism is an expectation of a positive future, hope is a deliberate choice to focus on the possibility of a better future and involves individual and collective agency. It is a proactive attitude that motivates action towards achieving desired outcomes.
The power of hope is evident in politics, as seen in Barack Obama’s successful presidential campaign with the slogan “Yes we can” and Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement. Leaders who inspire hope in their followers are more likely to gain trust and engagement, as evidenced by Gallup studies highlighting the importance of hope in leadership.
However, it is essential to strike a balance between hope and caution, avoiding the vices of presumption and despair. Hope, as described by Emily Dickinson, is a delicate yet resilient essence that resides within the soul and serves as a beacon of light in challenging times.
In conclusion, nurturing and preserving hope is crucial for personal well-being and societal progress. It is the driving force that propels individuals towards a brighter future and instills resilience in the face of adversity.
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jemima.kelly@ft.com
