Your assignment this week, should you choose to accept it, is to create an image based on the word “hope.”

We are in the third week of December, and for many people this time of year marks the season of Advent, a time of preparation, expectancy, and hope. People of other faiths don’t necessarily observe Advent or even Christmas, but as the days grow darker and colder, thoughts of the new year and the hope that it may bring something new, something better, seem to grow for all.

So that’s why this week’s challenge is to create an image of hope. Think about what kind of image you could create that might inspire hope for your viewers, or for yourself.

Of course, not everyone is filled with thoughts of hope and happiness this time of year. If you’re among this group, please know that’s okay. You don’t need to force an image of hopefulness if you’re just not feeling it. But please, if you’re feeling this way, do reach out to someone—a family member, friend, clergy, or even me—to talk about it. Know that you’re not alone, and the days will get brighter eventually.