Inspirations: Archives

How much room does expectation take up?  Where does it live?  Who does if feed?  How do we see it? When is it at its worst?  And…if you did not expect ‘it,’ would there be room for more delightful things such as contentment, awareness, lack of angst, and more turkey? It’s hardest when we expect happiness, right?  Happiness at the holidays?  Happiness with loved ones, family, friends?  Happiness is such a big shoe to fill.  When we walk in those silver slippers life is slippery. How do we catch ourselves expecting?  It ain’t like having a baby.  It would save much heartache if we knew when we were expectant, especially as we enter the winter holidays, layered with memories, family, and old friends; invitations, and gifts.  Oh yes, it’s an enormous minefield of hidden expectation. Must we become Zen, or Buddhist to not suffer at our own hand? Perhaps, starting with the suspicion that happiness is over-rated? I doubt it.  If I learn to hold my hopes more lightly, and care less?  If the pleasure of a stranger’s smile could replace the anxious expectation of the thoughtful gift? If only Uncle Ned won’t get drunk at the party?  What if Sister Sarah’s boyfriend doesn’t give her the ring?  And on it goes, that merrie-go-round of expected joy and disaster which leaves so little space for being present, for giving oneself the gift of surrender.  Perhaps I shall wrap a small box, beautifully, and place it by my bed to hold all my expectations, conscious and un, to see me through the holidays. “You did invite me to your party, didn’t you?” Pose With Seasonal Energies: Asana: Goddess Pose.  A great pose from which to create composure, endurance, non-expectation. Standing with legs wide, feet open out, take a breath and as… Read more »