Insight: Tousled observations of hope by Lorraine Glowczak

When I began writing these editorial Insights a little over a year ago, I decided to write about ordinary things that caught my fancy. I continue to do that 15 months later and have come to think of them as my “tousled observations.” I consider jumbled ideas as various events, articles and experiences pass by me throughout the week, trying to make sense of them.

In these reflections, I hope to discover for myself ways to better my life with the hope that those who might read my words from time to time will gather information for their own personal considerations and a life well-lived.

As I write this Insight, it is Wednesday, April 4. This day marks the 50^th anniversary of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. 

I have made it no secret that I am a pie in the sky, Anne of Green Gable, the glass half full kind of gal. But even I can’t deny that current events seem a little chaotic these days, leaving more than just a few of us to experience less hope than we’d prefer.

Which brings me back to Dr. King. During his time, when the color of his skin prevented him from certain rights and freedoms, when the Vietnam War was in full swing, when it was a time of tumultuous social and political change – I wonder how he kept going, remaining positive and hopeful.

I’m sure some would say his faith was the contributing factor and I suppose that might be true. But I know one thing for certain. While we all might face our own unsettling times, his mature and well thought out choices and actions give me hope as I make my way in the world today. 

Through his actions, I look at my own and ask, “What can I do?” Plenty is my own reply. There are an infinite number of ways I can do my part on a small scale to provide hope and harmony today and always. But as I have progressed on in my years, I acknowledge I can’t do it all. I realize there are certain things that I might enjoy more. One way that moves me more than most others, and that is writing this Insight.

I wonder and I hope that I have done my job well in these weekly tousled observations – maybe inspiring others, just a little, to make positive changes as they see the need; starting with their own self-reflections and moving outward to touch others in some small way. 

I suppose it’s not my business to know how my writing may assist others. I must just keep showing up, doing my job and keep the hope going for myself; and looking to others, like Martin Luther King, Jr. for inspiration.