I would like to take a moment to acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Áakʼw Ḵwáan, the original inhabitants of Lingít Aaní. We pay respect to the Áakʼw Ḵwáan elders, both past and present, and honor the spiritual wisdom they bring to our society.
In a world increasingly shaped by crises — ranging from wars and natural disasters to social and economic turmoil — it can be challenging to hold on to hope. Yet, amidst these trials, hope is not only possible but vital. The Bahá’í Faith offers a perspective that sees crises not as insurmountable obstacles, but as opportunities for growth and transformation. From this lens, hope becomes a powerful force for navigating difficulties and building a better future.
Hope is a profound source of strength that enables us to persevere through life’s trials with courage and faith. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá reminds us, “Never lose thy trust in God. Be thou ever hopeful, for the bounties of God never cease to flow upon man. …Man is under all conditions immersed in a sea of God’s blessings. Therefore, be thou not hopeless under any circumstances, but rather be firm in thy hope.” This perspective offers reassurance that even in moments of hardship, blessings abound if we adjust our view. Hope, then, becomes a conscious choice to trust in life’s inherent abundance and to draw strength from the divine.
From a Bahá’í perspective, crises often serve a greater purpose. Much like a gem polished through friction or gold refined in fire, humanity’s spiritual and social progress is often born of hardship. Difficulties compel individuals and communities to grow, to innovate, and to strengthen their reliance on higher virtues, such as compassion, patience, and perseverance. Bahá’ís themselves have faced significant trials throughout history, yet their steadfastness in the face of adversity has been a source of inspiration for countless others. For example, despite enduring persecution in many parts of the world, Bahá’í communities have consistently worked toward promoting unity, education, and the betterment of society.
Among the traditional values of the Tlingit & Haida Nation is the principle “Hold Each Other Up” — a call to uplift one another in times of hardship and in daily life. Though I do not belong to this culture, I share this value with deep respect and admiration. It speaks to a vision of community where strength is collective, and where compassion, support, and shared responsibility are essential. In times of crisis, this wisdom feels especially vital: we are not meant to face difficulties alone. This value echoes in the Bahá’í belief in the oneness of humanity, which likewise calls us to unity and mutual support. Whether facing global or local challenges, the path forward begins when we hold each other up.
Hope is not passive—it is best expressed through action. The Bahá’í Faith teaches that service to humanity is one of the highest forms of worship. By working to uplift others, we embody hope and share it with those around us. Small acts of kindness, community service, and efforts to educate and empower others are tangible ways to manifest hope in daily life. Bahá’í communities around the globe strive to create spaces for dialogue, mutual support, and social progress, demonstrating that even small efforts can have a profound impact.
As we navigate the challenges of our time, it is essential to remember that hope is both a spiritual necessity and a practical tool. It is the light that guides us through darkness and the force that propels us toward a better future. In the words of Bahá’u’lláh, “Soon will the present-day order be rolled up, and a new one spread out in its stead.” These words remind us that the crises we face today are not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter for humanity — one defined by unity, justice, and peace.
• Adam Bauer is the secretary for the Juneau Bahá’í Local Spiritual Assembly. “Living and Growing” is a weekly column written by different authors and submitted by local clergy and spiritual leaders. It appears every Saturday on the Juneau Empire’s Faith page.
