Hope is defined as an "optimistic attitude of mind based on an expectation of positive outcomes related to events and circumstances in one's life or the world at large".
As we round off 2014, we have little reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead.
Based on what we went through this year, and the challenges we failed to meet, the days ahead hold scant promise.
Our economy is sick and the prognosis of the doctors of economics is that we are in deep trouble and the sooner we change our lifestyle the better.
The Marikana scars and the five-month strike by the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union started a new trend and changed our labour dispensation.
Hopes that the labour front would improve later in the year were dashed when the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa pounded the economy with its strike.
Numsa's radical stance ensures that the road ahead will be bumpy.
At times like these, when we need to be inspired and given assurances that tomorrow will be better, our president is missing in action. Not only is he refusing to appear in parliament and take questions from opposition MPs, he is determined to be accountable only to his ANC sycophants.
Chances that he will change his attitude and start to inspire the nation are remote.
The realisation of the hope that the new year will bring better governance depends on President Jacob Zuma.
We hope that both he and the ANC use this festive break to reflect on the year that was and on what this nation needs now.
The reality is that rampant political and public service corruption, abuse of public office, the Nkandla scandal, a floundering Eskom and SAA, a rudderless education system - the list is endless - will still be with us in the new year.
For this country to regain its confidence and stature, its leaders must find it in their hearts to serve the nation and not their pockets and egos.
Don't hold your breath.
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