Written by Jon van Wyk
In today’s poorly delineated world of suffering, in an age defined by rapid change and uncertainty, I am still inspired to know that humanity still turns to hope as a powerful antidote to despair.
Grounded in our inbuilt desire for a better future, hope is not merely a philosophy—it’s a fundamental aspect of our human DNA that shapes our actions, fuels our resilience, and builds community. In a tumultuous world that often crushes the human spirit, the importance of hope can never be overstated.
Hope then, embodies the belief that the future can and must hold something better than the present. It invites us to dream, of bright possibilities, even when the chips are down and time has run out.
Psychologist Charles Snyder, defined hope as the perception that one can find pathways to desired goals (the “how” of achieving) and the belief in their capacity to reach those goals (the “will” to succeed). This dual structure of hope—connecting a deep, personal motivation with a clear vision, can actually shape the future of the individual as well as the community at large.
In today’s world, where the headlines vie for attention to the latest crises ranging from climate change to political instability, hope serves as a critical buffer against the depression and anxiety which is so endemic today, particularly among younger generations. A sense of hopelessness then goes on to create a self-perpetuating cycle, severely impacting an individuals’ ability to engage with life. Conversely, developing hope can empower individuals to seek solutions, build resilience, and make a positive contribution to society.
Hope is also the key ingredient in fostering social connections. When individuals engage in a hopeful vision for the future, they are more likely to collaborate, innovate, and engage in collective action. When people unite under worthy goals, whether they be improving climate justice, equality, or world peace, the shared commitment to voicing hope helps break down barriers, creating solidarity in a fragmented world.
Notwithstanding, history has repeatedly shown that hope can be the catalyst of social change. Icons like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela demonstrated how hope could inspire movements that transform societies. King’s dream and hope of racial equality united millions and ignited significant legislative change in the United States.
In contemporary movements, whether climate activism or campaigns advocating for global peace, hope continues to act as a driving force for necessary reforms. Ultimately, the power of hope is an ongoing, eternal part of our human condition. It compels us to choose between the dream of a better future or accept a life less lived.
Album of the month
Back in the High Life Again
by Steve Winwood
Steve Winwood’s “Back in the High Life Again,” released in 1986, is the perfect blend of smooth rock, pop, and soul. It showcases his exceptional vocal range and instrumental abilities.
The album opens with the infectious title track, ‘Higher Love,’ which perfectly captures the essence of nostalgia and resilience, focussing on a message of perseverance and hope..
Featuring lush arrangements and Winwood’s signature keyboards, this standout single became a global anthem, combining spiritual longing with a danceable beat – an anthem that was both uplifting and instantly recognisable at a time when ‘angst’ ruled the airways.
Throughout the album, Winwood expertly balances his lyrics with uplifting melodies, as heard in tracks like ‘Higher Love,’ ‘Take It As It Comes,’ ‘The Finer Things.’ Layers of keyboards, guitars, studio drums are offset by the superb instrumentation of synths and more traditional devices such as the achingly beautiful mandolin overlay in “Back In The High Life.”
Lyricist Will Jennings adds depth to the emotional resonance of the songs throughout and the production is polished yet organic, allowing Winwood’s genius to shine. “Back in the High Life Again” cements Winwood’s place in the musical history and remains a timeless exploration of hope and joy at a time when it is needed more than ever.
Headphone rating 9.3/10