Rethinking Hope: A Call for Active Engagement in 2026

The Urgent Need for Hope

As I reflect on the state of our society, the outlook for 2026 may seem bleak. Surveys reveal that a staggering number of Americans feel disheartened, believing that the country is on a downward slope economically and politically. Almost 80% do not foresee a better future for their children, exacerbating a pervasive sense of despair. This grim landscape poses a significant threat—not just to individual morale, but to collective progress.

Understanding Modern Hope

Currently, hope is often misconceived as a static aspiration rather than a dynamic practice. According to psychological studies, hope is defined as a motivator that propels us towards achievable goals. Self-help figures advocate for practical beginnings; however, this perspective raises concerns: what happens when our aspirations seem impossibly distant?

A Flawed Conception

This modern understanding may inadvertently nurture hopelessness. When the challenges we face extend beyond individual capacities—like climate change or social justice—shrinking our aspirations to 'manageable' goals can seem appealing. But protecting self-esteem comes at a hefty price: it fosters a culture of resignation, where the question, “Why bother?” looms large.

A Spiritual Approach to Hope

Fortunately, an alternative conception of hope exists, deeply rooted in spiritual traditions: hope is not merely an aspiration to be managed; it is a virtue to be lived. Historical figures like Thomas Aquinas embraced this view, suggesting a hope grounded in humility rather than arrogance. This shift reframes hope as an invitation to engage actively rather than as a pathway to disappointment.

Hope as a Way to Be

When we understand hope as a practice linked to the greater good, we free ourselves from the heavy burden of individual failure. It becomes a commitment to strive towards the betterment of society, knowing that success is not solely in our hands. The Rabbinic teaching reminds us: while we may not complete the work, we cannot cease from striving towards it.

Evidence and Engagement

Research indicates that individuals who incorporate spirituality into their lives report a greater sense of hope. Studies show that engaging with faith not only generates a sense of optimism but also inspires action. The religiously active are frequently more involved in their communities compared to their secular counterparts, disproving the notion that faith leads to passivity.

Hope Beyond the Self

The essence of hope lies in recognizing that we are part of a larger narrative. Rabbi Angela Buchdahl encapsulates this notion beautifully: “Life is not solely about any one of us.” By unshackling hope from ego, we embrace an empowering drive to act that, above all, resists despair.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we gear up for 2026, I call upon all of us to embody hope in its true form—a choice to persist against the odds. It's not just about hoping for a better world, but actively working to create one, regardless of the obstacles we face. Hope urges us to move beyond despair and to engage fully with our communities, creating a ripple effect of change. Let's practice this virtue together, transforming our aspirations into tangible actions for a brighter future.