Underlying human adult endeavor, there must be a sense of hope that one's actions can make a difference. Without hope, the range of possibilities narrows and any risky endeavor or new learning tends to be avoided. Motivation decreases, cynicism grows and the spirit of "why bother?" prevails.
On the other hand, when hopeful that good things can and do happen, motivation tends to be high as well as confidence and positivity, fundamental qualitites for success. Children are innately hopeful unless burdened by adult problems and situations beyond their control. What can a child do about adult problems? They are not equipped to handle them yet so in order to allow a spirit of hopefulness to grow in children, we consciously shield them from the problems that adults face and present to them a picture that the world is good. This takes conscious effort on the part of adults - to avoid the news or dicussion of problems in the presence of the children.
When a child experiences an environment imbued with caring, joyfulness and peace as well a reassuringly steady rhythm, a child maintains a spirit of hopefulness. Just like the tender sapling must be protected from strong winds and frosts in order to grow into a healthy plant, the young child must be protected, too. Then when the child grows up and is physically, emotionally and mentally equipped to address adult problems, actions are then inspired by hopefulness. In this way, we cultivate adults prepared to make a difference, who remember how good the world can be and strive to make it better.
