No flaws in this hoping mechanism

IN some shape or form, we’re all living in hope.

Hope of what’s on the horizon or around the next corner.

It’s what sustains us in the mundane moments of everyday life and at difficult times. It’s what gives us courage and strength to look to the future.

Hope comes in many forms: hope of an upcoming holiday, hope of losing a few kilos in time for summer.

Hope of success in sport, hope of what our kids or godchildren will achieve.

Hope of the next big win on the punt. I’ve been crossing my fingers for a double zero on the roulette table since 2008.

Hope for deeper relationships with friends or loved ones.

Hope of being able to afford our own home, or hope of finding a partner for life or rekindling an old romance.

Or simply hope of things returning to ‘the way they used to be’.

As one source of hope evaporates, another usually springs up. At the moment my source of hope is my upcoming holiday to America — part of which will be a family holiday, part of which will be a boys’ trip getaway with my brother. I might regret writing this after the holiday, but I’m excited to spend more than 48 consecutive hours with my parents. I moved out of home about two years ago, so a nightly debrief with Mum or Dad over a drink isn’t possible now. Yes, we speak on the phone, but it’s not the same. I’m hopeful my parents and I can actually enjoy some sustained conversation and activities together on this trip, something that distance and the pace of everyday life doesn’t allow.

I’m looking forward to the memories my brother and I will create.

It’s our first overseas holiday together free from parental control.

I’m hopeful we will create memories that we will recall when we are old and grey. And recount stories of this trip with laughter.

Six years separate us but we’re on the same page when it comes to many of life’s divisive topics.

Hope on its own doesn’t really achieve anything. It’s got to be coupled with persistence to bring about any real results.

Whatever your pursuit, hope for it, plan for it and achieve it. And look forward to the future!