hope deferred

I'm doing a dangerous thing - I'm asking for opinions! ;-)

What does this verse mean, practically speaking, for us?

I've given you a few different translations to give you perspective.


Proverbs 13:12

Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
  but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life. (NLT)

Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
   but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. (NIV)

Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick,
   but a sudden good break can turn life around. (The Message)


Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
   but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life. (ESV)

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire is fulfilled, it is a tree of life. (Amplified)

Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life. (NKJV)