Early Hopes

When I first started paying more attention to hope and how it influences quality of life (Hope Foundation's Mission), I was often asked if we are born with hope. I would immediately think of a new born baby who looks around the world with interest, who cries to let the world know that he or she is hungry or wet or hurting. Who learns that sometimes crying helps to get what he or she needs and sometimes it doesn't and to distinguish between the two.

My husband related the following story upon his return from a recent visit to see our grandchildren. Our grandson, who is learning to walk was trying to get over to see what his older sister was painting. Every time he managed to get about two feet away from her, his mom and dad would run up and tickle him while they pulled him back and tried to distract him with something else. But he was determined. He crawled faster and faster each time looking both ways for his parents.

Then when he was his two feet away and before his mom even got up, he collapsed whimpering. His mom realized his frustration. This time she picked him up and cuddled him, talking soothingly to acknowledge his feelings. Explaining at the same time, that his sister needed her space. Because it was his bedtime, she got him ready for bed. By this time he was content to settle into his crib.

I imagine, he is going to have many more experiences like this one. He is a very determined little boy. He spends all day walking around the couch and along the walls. He does not give up easily. He loves playing with his sister. This was an unusual event because he and his sister play together for long periods of time. But there are times when she will be doing things that he is not old enough to particate in. That is one of the lessons we all learn at some point - sometimes we have to let go of a hope.

One thing is for sure. He knows he has a strong support system to turn to when he cannot attain his hopes and/or goals. If his mother had not comforted him, his father, grandfather or sister would have.

At eight months old he has already learned a lot about hope. These early learning experiences, framed by a lot of love and guidance, build his trust - both in himself and in others. Reserach demonstrates that learning to hope in trusting and loving relationships creates a strong foundation to hope from!