Hope is to the human spirit what breath is to the physical body-the very fuel that animates our being. But with hopefulness comes the possibility of disappointment. How can we hope and yet be realistic about what we hope for? In his pastoral and gentle way, John R. Claypool draws on insights from the fields of theology, psychology, and biblical studies- as well as on his own experience-to describe the reality of hope in all its complexity. This very personal book will be a welcome companion to anyone struggling with disappointment, fear, or loss.