I would be the last to speak against hope, certainly. The world- or better to say life, perhaps- has so much potential for both cruelty and kindness, but they are not meted out in equal measure. Hope gives us something to work for to better our lot and the lives of those around us. It does not grant us immunity from grief and pain.

[He sighs and winces internally. He was distracted by his own pain when he should think of Jehan's.]

I'm sorry, I should not speak so- it is not helpful.