Radical Hope: The Transformative Power of Spring/Wood Energy
In the philosophy of Chinese medicine, the five elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—represent fundamental energies that flow through nature and our bodies. These elements symbolize the dynamic phases of energy that drive the cycles of life. Energy is like the wind—we can’t see it, but we can see and feel its effects. It is the Wood Phase energy that powers Spring. This energy makes birds burst into song, causes sap to rise, and sparks the restlessness we call “cabin fever.” Spring/Wood energy has an expansive, upward-moving quality, giving rise to birth, renewal, and rapid growth. Wood energy brings us Hope. We feel Hope running through our bodies as we, too, are renewed when Spring brings the world back to life.
Birth and renewal are deeply mysterious processes, continuously unfolding as Life recreates Herself daily. We are so accustomed to these miracles that we forget to be awed: a seed sprouting, a snowdrop breaking through frozen ground, the arrival of new life in all forms. We experience this magic in our own creative processes, whether making art, starting a business, or planning a dinner party. Inspiration catches our attention (inspiration by definition comes from the Mystery). Then we envision, feel, and plan, eventually turning inspiration into reality. This creative unfolding mirrors the movement of Spring/Wood energy through us, from Spirit to Mind/Emotion to manifestation in the physical world.
When we see Hope as an expression of Spring/Wood energy, its essential role in creation becomes clear. Yet in these times of cultural and ecological unraveling, we must ask: How do we follow the thread of Hope to support the Earth’s immense project of birthing a Thriving Life Future?
"Hope is a verb with its sleeves rolled up. Hope is always busy trying to change the odds," said David Orr, Professor of Environmental Studies. This view challenges our common understanding of Hope as a passive emotional state. Saying, “I hope it’s sunny on Saturday,” is a passive Hope—we have no control over the weather. But to say, “I hope we survive the great unraveling of our era,” carries a different weight. This is Hope as a direction, a practice, and a call to action.
This kind of Hope fuels the countless ways people are co-creating a regenerative future—from protecting the environment, transforming our economic and social systems to awakening a new spiritual consciousness. It is not wishful thinking; it is a discipline, an intentional practice. Hope in this sense is spiritual and energetic, a shift in perception that changes how we think and walk through the world.
Unlike optimism, which waits for evidence, Radical Hope acts despite uncertainty. It is engaged, courageous, and willing to return again and again. Radical Hope isn’t naive—it knows the odds, but chooses to try anyway. It aligns us with the relentless creative power of Life. It’s the snowdrop pushing through frozen ground. It’s the seed reaching for sunlight. It is us, choosing to believe in and participate with Life’s renewal, even when the way forward is unclear.
Spring/Wood energy reminds us that renewal is not only possible, it is already underway. By aligning with this phase of energy, we remember that Hope is not something we passively feel; it is something we actively practice. It is a creative force that arises from within us, fueled by the same energy that brings the world back to life each Spring. In times of uncertainty, practicing Radical Hope grounds us in the knowledge that we are part of a greater cycle—one that is always moving toward life. When we embody this Hope, sleeves rolled up, hearts open, we become co-creators of a future rooted in spirit, regeneration, resilience, and the enduring miracle of renewal.
Catch the Thread of Radical Hope
Resilient Spirit Summer Retreat is happening May 3rd
Click below for more info and to register.
Hope to see you there
Feel free to respond to this email…I always love to hear from you.