Metrics for Hope

Time spent watching cousins at play
Ultrasound photos around the house
“I’m sorry”s followed by “I forgive you”s
Old friends with whom you pick up right where you left off
Toddler’s attempts to mimic the sign of the cross
Emails from former students
Courtesy waves from the driver you let merge
Hours in Adoration
Grace-filled acts of countercultural defiance
Prayers uttered in stressful moments
Rolls of diaper bin trash bags