by Holly Jacobs
The holidays are a time for family, for joy, for…Hope.
I spent a week online talking about Hope. I used to say I was an optimistic person. I believe that things will work out. It’s a blind belief. A trust in the fact most people listen to their better angels. But hope? Hope takes work. It’s a belief that things can be better, that people can be better…if you’re willing to work for it.
A friend sent a meme and I don't know who to credit. But I love the imagery. Hope requires work to bring it to realization. That's the truth. Unlike optimism, hope is hard work.
And as I think about it, I love that in this quote, hope is a woman.
My cousin (a very, very distant cousin) penned this little ditty about hope…
"Hope” is the thing with feathers -
That perches in the soul -
And sings the tune without the words -
And never stops - at all -
And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard -
And sore must be the storm -
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm -
I’ve heard it in the chillest land -
And on the strangest Sea -
Yet - never - in Extremity,
It asked a crumb - of me.
- Emily Dickinson -
So this holiday, HOPE is going to be my theme. I tend to pick a Word of the Year and, though it’ll be a repeat, I think HOPE is going to be my word for 2025.So in my current word of choice, I hope you all have a wonderful holiday…whatever holiday you celebrate this time of year. There are a lot to choose from! And I wish you a happy and hope-filled 2025.
Holly Jacobs
Holly Jacobs leads a life full of romance and adventure. From skydiving to jet-setting around Europe, from snorkeling in coral reefs to writing while wearing beautiful silk peignoir sets and popping chocolate bonbons, Holly Jacobs leads a life that is the epitome of romance...
Well, my fictional life sounds more interesting, but not better than my real life. Really, I'm the happily married mother of four. I cook a lot, garden and play with clay! My books range from lighthearted comedies to more serious dramas and now even mysteries...but at heart, they're all stories of love.
If you’re looking for some HOLLYday reading, check out Deck the Halls, a Kindle and KU exclusive. https://a.co/d/6HXudIM
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I've heard of people picking a word for the year and I like the idea, although I'm not sure that I can accomplish it. I enjoyed reading your post!
Thanks for the HOLLYday hope message. I like those very strong images of hope. No wishy-washy hope for me this season but the real thing, battling against those elements that can disillusion us. Again, thanks.
Hi Holly! One thing the internet is great for is making us feel up-close and personal. I've "known" you for years. Nice to see you again and I love your word, "Hope." I tend to flit around on subjects. I will say that Hope is my word for today, the Thursday before Christmas. Sending all good wishes to you and yours! :)
Thanks for coming today, Holly. I always have my fan-girl regalia on when you visit. Wishing you and your family so much glee through the holidays!