Critter Corner: How to Observe National Month of Hope

Dear Oakley,

I have always been an optimist. I just found out that April is National Month of Hope. What is it all about, and what are some things I can do to celebrate this special month? Thanks for your help!

Hope N Owrlives

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Dear Hope,

During April, days are longer, flowers come into bloom, and sunshine brightens our days. There is no better time for the National Month of Hope, a month celebrating optimism and the lifting of spirits.

Bringing hope to someone can take many forms. Being a positive role model in a child or a grandchild’s life or lifting the spirits of a friend suffering from a medical issue are ways to bring hope, love, and optimism into someone’s life. So are contributing your wisdom, time, and kindness.

Celebrating National Month of Hope

Everyone needs a little hope now and then. Spread a little sunshine their way and bring some hope into their lives. Here are some hope-giving actions you can take, recommended by Mothers In Crisis, Inc., founders of the National Month of Hope:

Volunteer by reading to children in schools.
Experience meaningful and healthy communication with loved ones, family, friends, co-workers, and colleagues.
Give of time, food, and money to help those in need.
Write letters, visit, call or FaceTime loved ones who are alone.
Post words of hope on social media. Use #NationalHopeMonth hashtag.
Lend a helping hand to those in need.
Clean up areas where there is trash, such as parks and beaches.

How National Month of Hope Was Founded

Mothers In Crisis, Inc. founded National Month of Hope to help spread hope around the world. Founded by Rosalind Tompkins in 1991, Mothers In Crisis, Inc. supports women and families who are in need, bringing them hope and empowering them to find a new path. The National Month of Hope has been observed annually beginning in 2018, and it’s a day to spread hope, love, and optimism.

Hope and Positivity Is Good for Your Health. Be Hopeful Every Day!

Researchers at John Hopkins University have found that people who are more positive may be better protected against the inflammatory damage of stress. Another possibility is that hope and positivity help people make better health and life decisions and focus more on long-term goals. Studies also find that negative emotions can weaken immune response.

Even if you are not a naturally hopeful and optimistic person, there are steps you can take to improve your outlook and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, such as smiling more often. Studies have shown that simply forcing yourself to smile more often will force your brain to think more positive thoughts, which will in turn trigger you emotionally to actually feel more happy, hopeful, and positive. You can build hopefulness and reduce stress in your life by simply reframing seemingly stressful scenarios in your thoughts. For example, instead of getting stressed out over being stuck in traffic, consider the positive aspects of your situation –– you get more time to listen to your favorite music or podcast, or the latest audiobook you’ve been listening to. So, try to be happy, optimistic, and positive during National Month of Hope and every day!

Hope this helps!

Oakley