"Instead of filling with expectations, the joy-filled expect nothing--and are filled. This breath! This oak tree! This daisy! This work! This sky! These people! This place! This day! Surprise!"
--excerpt from One Thousand Gifts by Ann Vosamp
Do you ever go about your day living it according to your expectations? Perhaps you have a running list of to-dos, or are looking forward to a certain plan at a specific time? Or maybe you're not even aware of the specific expectations you might have but somehow find yourself living in a type of "auto-pilot." Either way at day's end you are left feeling let down if things didn't go the way you expected.
But to live a life free of expectation is to truly live. If we cast aside our expectations and, instead, live moment by moment, savoring all that the day has to offer, then we become more aware of the hidden gifts that lie within. Living life without expectation is to make yourself alert to the joy of just being. No let-downs, no disappointments, but simply seeing and savoring everything around you. Imagine how much happier each day could be if we only let it happen without comparing the events of the day to our expectations. But to just allow ourselves to be filled by the simple delights that come. This weekend I encourage you to let go of your expectations and see where a day of just being will lead.
Do you ever go about your day living it according to your expectations? Perhaps you have a running list of to-dos, or are looking forward to a certain plan at a specific time? Or maybe you're not even aware of the specific expectations you might have but somehow find yourself living in a type of "auto-pilot." Either way at day's end you are left feeling let down if things didn't go the way you expected.
But to live a life free of expectation is to truly live. If we cast aside our expectations and, instead, live moment by moment, savoring all that the day has to offer, then we become more aware of the hidden gifts that lie within. Living life without expectation is to make yourself alert to the joy of just being. No let-downs, no disappointments, but simply seeing and savoring everything around you. Imagine how much happier each day could be if we only let it happen without comparing the events of the day to our expectations. But to just allow ourselves to be filled by the simple delights that come. This weekend I encourage you to let go of your expectations and see where a day of just being will lead.
Such an inspiring piece of writting! Yes, it's true that expectations hurts. They leads to distress. Once you start hoping from them they shatter you, leaving you hopeless and In grievances
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this insightful reflection and encouraging us to embark on a weekend of presence and appreciation. May we all find joy and contentment by savoring the gifts that each moment brings.
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