The Gift of Hope: Strength for the Journey

by Sr. Marie Ostry, ND

Hope is a gift which is the strength of virtues in my life.  As I have traveled this journey of Life my experience has been of ups and downs, challenges and blessings.  The gift of Hope strengthens me through my time in prayer and sharing with community.  I am not alone on this journey.  I know through my faith and experience that God does walk with me and in some times very real ways has “stepped in” and “assisted” me in my challenges.  This comes in ways of someone coming into my life at the time I am discerning what to do; a phone call; or an inspiration in prayer.

I have come to know that God is present all around not only because of Creation and because of the “breath of life” given when I was born.  When I am aware of this PRESENCE in my life, I am more open to the inspirations which come from God as well as the insight from others including Creation, all nature.  For me, this is where the gift of Hope expands I my life – through relationships with God, others, and all Creation.