The goal with hostages is to gradually lower expectations; in nonhostage crises, it's to lower emotions.

Every happiness is a hostage to fortune.

Never again can we allow out-of-state profiteers to hold Californians hostage.

is being held hostage by mugs, thugs, murderers and intimidators.

You can't let your past hold your future hostage.

Personal affection is a luxury you can have only after all your enemies are eliminated. Until then, everyone you love is a hostage, sapping your courage and corrupting your judgment.