The Power of Hope

I heard a story about an experiment conducted to explore the impact of hope on the perseverance of mice faced with a challenging situation. The scientists set up two identical rooms, both containing a bowl of water. In one room, darkness prevailed, with no source of light. The other room, however, had a subtle but significant difference – a small streak of light entering through a slightly opened door.

In each bowl of water, a mouse was placed, both of the same breed and similar in every way. The scientists observed with keen interest as the mice in both rooms reacted to their surroundings. The mouse in the completely dark room began to paddle frantically, desperately searching for a way out. It pounded the water vigorously, but as time passed and its breath grew shorter, it eventually succumbed to exhaustion and drowned.

Meanwhile, in the room with a glimmer of light, the second mouse faced the same challenge. At first, it too engaged in relentless efforts to stay afloat. However, something remarkable happened. The mouse, drawn to the faint light, kept its focus on the door. Despite the obstacles and the struggle to keep swimming, the small beacon of hope provided by the streak of light inspired the mouse to persevere.

As moments turned into minutes, and minutes into hours, the mouse in the room with light continued to paddle tirelessly. It refused to surrender to the overwhelming darkness and exhaustion. The glimmer of hope fueled its determination to survive. The mouse knew that if it could just reach the edge of the bowl, it might escape the water and the room altogether.

In the end, the mouse in the room with the small streak of light emerged victorious. It outlived its counterpart in the dark room, demonstrating the incredible power of hope. The experiment highlighted that even in the face of adversity, a glimmer of hope can make a significant difference, motivating individuals to persevere and overcome challenges. This tale of two mice serves as a poignant reminder of the strength that hope can provide, inspiring resilience and a refusal to give up even in the darkest of circumstances.

Scripture says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Knowing the plan of God, who is your maker and greatest advocate for your life and destiny, you will surely make it in life irrespective of the challenges you might be currently facing. God’s plans are to give you HOPE and a FUTURE. Sometimes, when you look at your present situation, it might look very bleak as if nothing good would emerge in your future. Misery and the frustrations of life may even cause some people to give up and take their own lives, committing suicide. Wherever you find yourself and whichever predicament you are in, it is my pleasure to submit a streak of LIGHT to you, a HOPE and inspiration, that don’t give up. You will eventually make it through and emerge better and stronger with bigger opportunities ahead of you.

During my time in graduate school in South Korea, I encountered challenges that painted a bleak picture for my career. I faced a situation where I received threats, compelling me to pack my bags and exit the lab where I was conducting my research. The ultimatum was to return to my home country, Ghana, without completing my Master’s degree. Feeling unfairly treated, I sensed a significant opportunity slipping away. However, in the midst of adversity, I persevered, diligently continuing my work and praying as best as I could. Seeking assistance, I consulted with colleagues and superiors in the Department of Chemistry. Eventually, circumstances shifted in my favor, and I was reinstated, allowing me to successfully complete my master’s program. In that period, facing setbacks, I resolved to transition to America to pursue my PhD. The challenges in South Korea not only prompted this decision but also fortified my determination to meet all requirements for this move and build my career in Science and Engineering in the USA. Despite this resolution, I encountered several challenges that narrowed my prospects of traveling to the USA. My stipend in Korea couldn't cover basic needs, let alone the funds required for graduate school in the US. This included expenses for writing the GRE, applying to schools, and upgrading my transcript. Financially strained, I borrowed from friends, and at one point, I had no place to live for an entire semester. Using the little money I had, I paid for application fees in the USA and transcript evaluation, applying to five schools to expand my opportunities. Maintaining hope and confidence, I faced challenges head-on, even sometimes sleeping in unconventional places in student dormitories or with friends. There were moments of despair, and I contemplated giving up on the GRE due to feeling unprepared. However, a friend's encouragement motivated me to proceed. In times of despair, opening up and seeking support from others is crucial. Despite the hardships, I navigated my way to the USA to pursue my career in Science and Engineering. Echoing a quote attributed to Marcus Aurelius, "The obstacle is the way, the impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way."

In moments of despair, the temptation to give up may be strong. Yet, I encourage you to hold on, persevere, and exert more effort. You will eventually overcome! Just as the streak of light in the dark room made a difference for the persevering mouse, I advocate for the Light of Jesus to guide you through your predicaments. As John 1:9 states, "That (Jesus) was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world."

In your darkest times, may you find the Great Light of Jesus, offering hope, confidence, and peace to carry you through tough times until you emerge victorious. I wish you well and pray for hope and a prosperous future. Amen!