It was early spring, beautifully sunny and warm in Southern Colorado. On a whim I decided to leave the beaten path of the highways & travel the back roads. My destination was about 3 hours north, a centuries old chapel nestled in the woods of a mountain village. The idyllic views and history called to me. I found myself on dirt roads that became narrower and more rocky as I continued. Not to be deterred I stayed the course, winding higher into the mountains. By midday I found myself at a crawl maneuvering a treacherous route. On one side, no guard rail and sure death if I were to find myself to close to the edge. On the other, boulders that required steering away and dangerously close to the edge of the cliff. Not a vehicle, building or person in sight and no way to turn the car around. I had no option but to continue the course.
The treacherous path I found myself on that day was not unlike many moments of my own childhood. I’m certain that those who suffer neglect, abuse, and abandonment in their early years face many of the same or similar challenges. The legacy of a life of neglect, abandonment and abuse leaves little room for hope, and yet somehow we find the courage to rise.
I once had a patient ask if I had hope in a pill. If only I did! How lovely to be able to offer everyone a quick dose of hope. But, the secret of obtaining hope seems elusive. I don’t profess to be able to hand anyone a quick dose of hope. I simply follow my heart, write or say the words that come to mind, and trust the universe that someone will find them uplifting.
Seeds of Hope 