“Hope,” Beethoven cried, “you forge the heart into steel.” Hope is confidence. Hope is determination. Hope is courage. And faith is the ultimate expression of hope. Belief fortifies the heart.

Stories of Hope

Refusing to Hate

Jose Abueva

Jose Abueva’s family was brutally murdered by Japanese soldiers. Yet the Filipino educator’s story is not one of hatred, but of forgiveness and hope for a harmonious future.

Stories of Hope

The Tenacity of Hope

Václav Havel

Václav Havel was a playwright, political dissident and president of the Czech Republic, whose service to freedom, democracy and human rights will always be remembered.

Stories of Hope

The Spirit of Reverence for Life

Wangari Maathai

Wangari Maathai will be forever remembered for empowering women and protecting our planet. She also promoted the Japanese “mottainai” spirit—treasuring life and wasting nothing.