There are three times in a year that usually infuse me with hope—New’s Year’s day, the first day of summer break, and the first day of school. They mark new beginnings, clean slates, a fresh piece of paper on which to write the story of my life. This week was the start of school in our family. And, well, I’m not feeling very hopeful.

Let’s just say that schooling at The Brown’s Academy for Boys did not get off to a good start. The hope I felt on Monday morning when we began another school year has quickly dissipated. And here I am wondering again if I am doing the right thing, and if not, what I should do.

I love to come up with plans, charts, formulas, solutions for a better day, a better year, a better way to manage things. But my creativity and optimism have about run out. I don’t have any more “solutions,” and none of my past solutions seems to have worked very well anyway.

There was a time that I had the energy to stand up and fight for hope, to yell, “Get thee behind me, Satan!” But, today, I am worn out, spiritually, mentally, even physically.

Surely, you know what I mean. Surely, you too, have had days like this. Surely, I am not alone.

So, what do we do? What am I doing?

I cried (literally) to God. I poured out my emotions to him.

I met a friend for lunch and had a good girl chat (and a nice plate of pasta).

I am seeking advice from someone I trust.

And I am clinging to God’s Word.

Romans 12:12 says, “Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.”

I’m trying.

Looking for more inspirational messages on hope? Check out Tricia’s YouTube video, “Why Hope?.”