Exercising the "Hope Muscle"
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By Lynn Douillette
Sr. Communications Associate, New Hampshire Humanities
In this world of technology and information overload, it is sometimes hard to stay grounded. Negative newsfeeds and contentious headlines are all around us, making it easy to lose sight of what really matters. But, within the noise of modern life, the humanities highlight the profound and enduring aspects of our existence. They are not just a source of knowledge, they are a source of hope, empowering us to move through life with optimism, resilience, and a deeper appreciation of what it means to be human.
History, viewed as a record of long-ago events or a chronological summary of the past, is much more than that. It is our connection to our ancestors, illustrating their struggles, their triumphs, and how they endured. Through the stories of those who came before us, we find inspiration and comfort, a reminder that we, too, can overcome our own challenges.
This is particularly the case when we consider the civil rights movement. It is not just a reminder of past injustices, but rather a testament to the power of collective action and the possibility of positive change, of understanding the struggles and victories of those who risked everything to fight for equality. In its most basic form, history grounds us in the continuity of human experience, illustrating that, yes, while there is struggle, there can also be progress.
Imagine the courage and resilience of those who marched on Selma to oppose oppression and stand up for justice and equality. Their stories are not just pages in a history book; they are living testaments to the indomitable will of the human spirit to overcome. The echoes of their footsteps are a reminder that change is possible. Understanding of our past gives us a foundation for hope.
Literature in all forms contains the extraordinary ability to capture what it means to be human. It is through novels, poetry, or folklore that writers attempt to define and understand the complexities of emotion, relationships, and experiences. To be able to read is to be able to see our own lives reflected back at us, often with a clarity that is impossible to achieve on our own.
When we immerse ourselves in a book, we are transported into worlds that are different from our own. Stories about love, loss, joy, and despair can be profoundly comforting, offering us hope when we are isolated or uncertain.
Literature, however, does more than that. It encourages empathy. When we “take a walk” in the shoes of characters, we can develop an understanding of perspectives vastly different than our own. This empathetic connection fosters a sense of community and belonging, two things that are crucial for hope.
Picture being comforted by a beloved book during a difficult time. As we turn the pages, we find characters that mirror our own struggles, who face their fears and emerge stronger. It is as if the author reached out and placed a hand on our shoulder, whispering, “You are not alone.”
Philosophy is an exploration of existence, ethics, knowledge, and reason. It asks questions such as “What is the right thing to do?” or “What does it mean to be an American?” Questions like these give us a framework for examining our personal beliefs and values, encouraging us to think critically and reflectively, in order to arrive at a deeper sense of self-awareness. But philosophy does not offer easy answers. Rather, it teaches us how to navigate life with patience, introspection, and perspective. These skills are often in short supply in a world that prioritizes quick fixes and instant gratification. This way of thinking also reminds us that it is okay to ask questions and to search for our own truths.
In short, philosophy invites us to welcome the unknown with curiosity and courage instead of with fear. It shows us that the journey to better understanding ourselves and others is often more valuable than the destination itself. By encouraging a mindset of inquiry and openness, philosophy prepares us to face the future with hope and resilience.
As we look to the future, the role of the humanities in our lives feels more important than ever. With rapid technological advancement and social change, the humanities provide us a much-needed counterbalance, grounding us in our shared human experience.
When we embrace the humanities, we find a wellspring of hope that nourishes our collective spirit, reminding us of our shared stories, our common struggles, and our capacity for growth. Through the humanities, we connect with the past, understand the present, and envision a future filled with possibility. They inspire us to face challenges with courage and optimism. In a world that often feels fragmented and uncertain, the humanities offer us the timeless gift of hope, guiding us toward a more connected, compassionate, and hopeful tomorrow.

"What’s the Big Idea?" is our new blog highlighting Granite Staters' experiences and perspectives in the humanities—from local roots to global ideas. We hope these stories from many voices will ignite conversation and big ideas, helping shape our understanding of what it means to be human. Join us as we delve into New Hampshire’s culture, history, and contemporary issues, while reflecting on what it means to live a life enriched by the humanities. Share your thoughts and ideas with us—this is a space for conversation!
We’d love to hear your ideas about a possible blog article! For more information, questions, or comments, please email us at info@nhhumanities.org.