1000's of Dolphins Congregating

[Ruth]

I've talked about this a few times before. I don't look at hope as either silly or counterproductive, because in the context of the "hoper" that's all they've been able to give themselves to work with about something they feel is desirable. It is at least "something" which seems to sustain and help people cope, when they otherwise might not be able to relate to that aspect of themselves at all. It's really the opposite of fear. They are both distancing mechanisms. The thing is, it is impossible to learn when hope or fear are present, because, for example, curiosity is (and must be) absent in both cases.

Interesting perspective, thanks! I'll have to ponder that last sentence.

I don't see how feeling hope or fear precludes curiosity. Please explain why you say this.

I have felt fear many times while still feeling curious about and investigating a strange noise in the woods all the while hoping that it wasn't a bear that would eat me.