Examining our Expectations

[poetrob]

This weeks lesson is rough. Examining our expectations to see which are
realistic and which aren't is hard.

I think it is possible to have a realistic expectation that doesn't workout.
I just recently experienced this.

Something I shared in a support group wasn't kept confidential and I
found out. I had an expectation that was based on a rule. What
happens in the group stays in the group. I don't think I had an unrealistic
expectation. I experienced a rude awakening.

I have a lot experience with seeing expectations crash and burn that were
realistic. To name a few, being independent, having my own place, and living
a normal life. I can say none of these things have happened. Were they
unrealistic? I hope not because everyone expects these things.

We can waist a lot of time and energy second guessing our expectations.
Sometimes you just don't know what is realistic or not. All you can do is
chart your course and set sail.

[Bill Sheldon]

I would consider the support group incident to be a case of "life isn't fair" more than an expectation. Anyway, I do think that being independent, having your own place, and living a normal life are not unreasonable expectations, but consider that the first and third are subjective. What exactly does it mean to be independent? What is a "normal" life? Are your definitions reasonable and fair? Even if they are, are you sure you can't get there with the help of this program?

Hang in there, my friend.