LETTING GO OF EXPECTATIONS

Holding on to expectations creates disappointment, shame, and suffering.  The words SHOULD, MUST, AND OUGHT TO become frequent visitors in my mind and judgmental criticism narrows my vision of myself and others.  I become angry that people don’t behave certain ways or do what I want them to do.  I am disappointed when things happen differently than they are SUPPOSE TO happen.  I speak words of shame to myself when I don’t live up to what I SHOULD.  Somehow I think my plan for the world is the master blueprint for the universe.  I forget that I’m not in control and others aren’t puppets on strings.  I understand that this need to control comes from a frightened, chaotic space within me.

Today, I choose to fill my mind with words of acceptance and reassurance.  I will comfort myself when things don’t turn out the way I want them to turn out.  I will give myself and others permission to be imperfect.  If I am disappointed, rather than descending into judgment, I will see it as an opportunity to grow and clarify my wants and needs.  I let go of expectations and open my mind and heart to myself and others.