No expectation..., no disappointment....

We get disappointed only when we have expectation (and when the expectation does not turn out to be a reality). When there is no expectation of any sort, whatever we get, is a blessing. We get satisfied with whatever we get and that makes us happy. After all, the happiness in life, is of paramount importance.

But, for that reason, can we totally avoid having any expectation? That is impossible to many of us. What is our aim when we join a reputed University? To get the coveted degree, and that too with 'flying colors'! Why do we join a sports academy, after having spotted our talent, in that particular sport? To become a champion sportsman. We put in all our heart and soul into it. So, it is quite natural for us to expect the result, right? No, sir!

Aim is different from expectation. We aim to become 'this or that'. Nothing wrong with that. We should work towards that aim and try to achieve the goal, set by us. But, despite all our efforts and dedication, the result is not in our hands. It is decided by extraneous forces, not induced or controlled by us. That is controlled by the Almighty. For example, we have prepared very well for the exam. We could get a virus or we may be bothered by sudden family events, over which we have no control. The result will be obviously opposite of what we aimed for. We might have great talent in a sport, but a sudden and unexpected physical injury might derail our dreams. Naturally we will get totally devastated, because of our expectation.

So, how do we avoid the disappointment? We should do our best and leave the rest to God. He knows 'what to give us' and 'when to give us'. In case He does not bestow on us what we aim for, either we do not deserve that, for whatever reason, or He might give us something better than that. We should have complete trust in Him.

Even in having relationship, we expect the people whom we love, to love us the way we do. Most of the time it does not happen and we get terribly upset and go into all sorts of depression. We feel like loving somebody, and we do love them. Never expect them to love us back the same way. They will have their own likings and dis-likings. We cannot make the horse to drink water, if it does not want.

Same is the case with our children. Just because we bring them up the hard way, we expect them to look after us in our old age. If we are lucky, we will have that 'privilege'. Otherwise, don't panic and be prepared for the worst. Then there is no disappointment.

We can sow the seeds, water the plant, apply manure in time, remove the unwanted growth (weeds) around it etc...., but if it rains heavily or there is a tempest around the reaping time or a sudden pest attack, what will happen...? So our job is to do our duty, aim for the result and pray to God. The rest is in His hands....