In these times of division, destructive wars, climate catastrophes, and resource mismanagement, we face complex and uncertain scenarios. This quote from Reinhold Niebuhr, a theologian, ethics professor, political commentator, and author, provides a way to understand our responsibility.

Nothing that is worth doing can be achieved in our lifetime; therefore we must be saved by hope. Nothing which is true or beautiful or good makes complete sense in any immediate context of history; therefore we must be saved by faith. Nothing we do, however virtuous, can be accomplished alone; therefore we are saved by love. No virtuous act is quite as virtuous from the standpoint of our friend or foe as it is from our standpoint. Therefore we must be saved by the final form of love which is forgiveness.  (Seen in Richard Rohr’s Daily Meditations, the Irony of American History, by Niebuhr)

Hope, faith, love, and forgiveness are powerful words to live by, yet so difficult to embody. Our life’s journey must embody these four human qualities. Then we have a chance to right the ship and provide inspiration to future generations. We have to start now, there is no better time.