In these days of pandemic, war and political turbulence, hope can seem
to be in short supply. But hope is one of the theological virtues and it
is far more profound than mere optimism. Today, pessimism and despair
seem all too prevalent. What can we do about the poor and starving,
about those who seem to be locked in interminable conflict and families
weighed down by the consequences of breakdown?
Sister Teresa White's book is an antidote to all this and it is written
with beautiful simplicity and directness. There is no hiding behind
complicated or technical language. In one of the most forceful chapters
in the book, the author shows how hope breeds courage and courage breeds
hope. But hope is not a matter of wishful thinking. Drawing on St
Augustine, the author shows moreover that hope has two essential
components. Not just courage but anger as well. The expression of our
anger can lead to greater clarity with our discernment and spiritual
perception. Hope too can lead us to understand God's solidarity with us
in times of sorrow and struggle.
Teresa White in this Lent Book draws on inspiration from writers as
diverse as Julian of Norwich and Karl Rahner, Elizabeth Barrett-Browning
and Henri Nouwen, but throughout the book there is strong scriptural
underpinning which the author uses to great effect.
