We are taught to set goals, which we hope to reach, and then we then form emotional attachments to the outcomes. The goals form a structure of stability which we can make plans around, which is useful, but our expectations can blind us to other unexpected outcomes that may have potential for equal happiness. Life is flowing in its own ways and it doesn’t always bring about the outcomes we expect.
When we expect something to unfold in a certain way, it is hard to enjoy the surprises that may actually be blessings and may be better than we expected. When we think of letting go of expectations we may hear an inner voice that tells us “This means that you have failed.”
*Madisyn Taylor says: ”…we are all at the mercy of the universal flow, and our best intentions are often thwarted by fate.”
If you are open to unforeseen outcomes, and accept them, you can find the positive aspects when a new situation that arises. The new situation may not correspond to your original plans—hopes, needs, wants—but if you can adapt to “what is,” and accept it, you may find unexpected joy.
One of my spiritual sisters said about the spiritual center she founded which grew to be quite big: “I could never have planned anything this great.” She was open to changes as they occurred, which were different than her plans. And her center grew bigger and better than she expected.
Plan and Pray is a Japanese saying. You never know what will happen next. Let’s be ready for anything! Not hold onto the past, release expectations.
Baba Hari Dass says “Each failure is a rung on the ladder of success.” Keep climbing and let’s see what happens next!
*These thoughts were inspired by a DailyOM post by Madisyn Taylor, “Releasing Your Expectations.”
