You are Part of an Ensemble

“You are not alone in the world. You are part of an ensemble.”
- Rich Mullins

We are about to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the helloHOPE site launch, and looking back at the amazing stories of hope we’ve had the privilege of sharing is both humbling and inspiring. From families that have experienced healing to families that are currently walking through medical difficulty to families that have lost loved ones, there is a constant theme that runs through each story: God has faithfully met each person’s need and brought hope to their situation.

So why is it so important to tell these stories? The reality is that lasting hope is grounded in deep truths about how God loves and cares for us. But as wonderful as hope sounds, it can feel like such an abstract and ethereal word.  Sometimes we just need to hear what encouraged someone else or kept them going through the tough times. Sometimes we need someone that can relate to our circumstances, pain, or emotions. That’s the power of stories.

These stories of hope are the essence of what our organization’s goal is: giving practical examples of what it means for a family to hold onto hope through difficult circumstances.  

Our Part to Play in Spreading Hope

A few months ago, I was reading a book about Rich Mullins, and I came to a section that talked about his family and his experience growing up. Rich was keenly aware of the fact that the decisions and circumstances from past generations all affected his current life, and this reality that the story was bigger than him is powerful:

“You are not alone in the world. You are part of an ensemble.”
- Rich Mullins

It’s inspiring to think that we’re part of something bigger, and that the story—in which we each play a unique role—keeps going. You may be waiting for a diagnosis, walking through symptoms and treatments, celebrating healing, or mourning a loss, but regardless, your individual story matters. It’s part of a larger, beautiful story that has the power to transform someone’s life and give them light in dark places.

Almost a year ago when we launched the blog, Mary Beth’s first post addressed this incredibly important truth that you are not alone and that your story has purpose. Seeing firsthand the power of the helloHOPE stories, we encourage you to share your journey of hope with another family that needs encouragement (or share it on our blog).

We also know that some of our readers may not currently be experiencing medical adversity. Here are some things you can do to make a difference in someone else’s story:

• Go out for coffee with someone you know facing medical challenges, ask them how they’re doing, and be ready to listen

• Write a note of encouragement to someone that’s discouraged

• Show a family that you love them and are thinking about them by serving them

• Share helloHOPE stories or resources with people that you know

Regardless of what you do to spread hope, know that you are part of an ensemble that is designed to bring light to dark places and tell the beautiful story of God’s grace and presence.

A diagnosis isn’t everything.
You are not alone.
Your story matters.