“Hope springs eternal in the human breast: Man never is, but always to be blest” is from a poem by Alexander Pope.
“Hope Springs Eternal” means that human beings have a natural, unending capacity for optimism. Regardless of how bleak, difficult, or hopeless a situation may seem, people will always find a reason to believe that things will eventually get better.
What gives an individual the capacity for optimism when others only foresee doom and disaster? Of recent times I have observed in a friend and a public figure the hope they have.
My friend, who lives in Queensland, has been battling a disease that normally ends in death within two years. Her battle is now well into the sixth year wherein she has undergone numerous operations, hospitalisation for months on end, numerous rounds of chemotherapy and other medical interventions. In this last week she has received further sad news and is about to recommence treatment.
Her hope comes from a strong Christian belief which underpins her faith and gives her optimism, not just in this life but in the life to come. She is an inspiration to her family and friends as she “endures it well.”
Neale Daniher was well known as an AFL player, coach and then as a crusader for Motor Neurone disease (MND) or as he called it “The Beast,” which eventually took his life in May of this year.
The life expectancy of an MND sufferer is 2 to 3 years. Neale lived for 12 years with the disease, but he refused to let it define him. He co-founded and became patron for the charity “Fight MND” which has raised over $140 million with more than $117 million directly invested into research and care.
He received numerous public awards and in 2025 was named Australian of the Year, but his focus was on life and his family who supported him throughout. He authored two books which contain many quotes which exhibited his hope for the future. The following examples certainly can help us as we navigate our earthly journey:
“When all is said and done, there is more said than done.”
“The past is over. The future isn’t promised. But what you do next is your choice for the taking. It’s where the change happens. Choose wisely.”
May we all continue to have the type of hope that enables us to each face the future with optimism.
Neville Walker
IFN Member and Member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
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