Day 13: Reflections on Hope - Week 2
Now it's your turn to again reflect and catch up on this second week of hope.
We’re just about two weeks into this thirty-day journey where I’m exploring a different aspect of hope each day. I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely had some moments these last couple of weeks when I was on the brink of losing hope only to read someone’s words that kept me going, music that restored my spirit, or a bluebird that landed outside my window at just the right moment. I am grateful for that!
Here is a recap of Week 2, which includes the day’s quote, a brief excerpt from the day’s letter, in some cases, some additional resources, and a daily reflection. If you’re interested in reading more from a particular day, click the “Read More” link below the excerpt and that will take to you to the post for that day.
If you want to share this series with others, please direct them to my website page, which summarizes all the posts so far, or just click the Share link below:
I hope that the wisdom of others and the reflections I’ve shared will help you find and sustain hope in your life. And as always, please share your reflections with me when you do. We all need to learn from each other.
Day 7: Draw the Circle Wide
Hear the song here:
Day 7 Reflection
What would it mean for your life, if you drew the circle wide and then drew it wider still? What would it add to your life? What do you fear you would be giving up? What challenges would it present for you?
Draw a picture or make a collage of your existing circle. Who’s missing from it? Add representations of those people or groups to your drawing. How does it make you feel to imagine a wider circle?
Day 8: Life Me Up to the Light of Change
For more about Holly Near and to find her music, visit Holly Near – Music and Activism
Day 8 Reflection
What do you think Holly means when she sings:
May the children see more clearly
May the elders be more wise
May the winds of change caress us
Even though it burns our eyes
What holds your confusion, your fears, your wonder and your tears?
Day 9: Creativity as a Path to Hope
Day 9: Reflection
Think about a project you can engage over this next year that will carry you through rough times. If you’re Type A, like me, spend time developing a plan, writing an outline, or otherwise, creating a path for your journey. I swear it helps! Then, whatever your personality type, pick up a pen, a brush, a piece of fabric, some yarn, an instrument, or anything that will allow you to explore the creative side of you, and let the act of creation guide you toward hope. Please share with me what you come up with.
Day 10: Hope and Resilience
Learn more about the amazing poet and incredible person who was Nikki Giovanni:
Washington Post: Nikki Giovanni had the confidence to make an art out of mistakes
The Princess of Black Poetry, Nikki Giovanni, has died at 81
Day 10 Reflection
Reflect on a story of resilience—whether from your own life, someone you admire, or a historical figure. How does their example inspire you to face your own challenges? Share your thoughts in words, images, or any creative form.
Day 11: Imperfect Hope
Explore more of Alice Walker’s life and work at Alice Walker’s Garden.
Day 11 Reflection
Spend a few minutes in nature in the next few days and look for signs of perfect imperfection. How does its imperfection add to its function, to its beauty. Take a photo or sketch it if you’re so inclined. Write a poem about it or just admire it. Let the beauty remind you that it’s OK to be imperfect, too.
Day 12: Lead with Love and Hope Will Follow
Day 12 Reflection
Research musicians and storytellers who are singing songs and telling stories designed to inspire us today and be sure to include some of the classic Civil Rights Movement songs like “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn me ‘Round,” and “We Shall Overcome.” As you do your research, I’d encourage you to start with Reggie Harris, Pat Wictor, Melanie DeMore, Matt Watroba, Kim Harris, and Sheila Arnold, then add a pinch of Cry Matthews, Greg Greenway, Holly Near, and whoever else who inspires you. Create a 2025 playlist that will keep you going even in the most difficult times. I’d love it if you’d share it with me.
Thank you for accompanying me on this journey.
With hope in my heart,
Annette
I've found that writing first thing in the morning, right after I welcome the sunrise off my balcony, is helping me get the day off to a better start. It grounds me to write about things that make me happy (my December project on Substack) and not just dive into the news cycle at breakfast. Now if I could just avoid the news cycle entirely :-)
For music, check out Emma's Revolution (https://www.youtube.com/@emmasrevolution). They've worked with Holly Near, and are great inspiration to me.