The Law of Expectations

Whether acknowledged or not, expectations are ingrained in our lives, shaping our interactions with ourselves, work, family, and even our pets. As Shakespeare astutely noted, it's the existence of these expectations that often leads to heartache. It's a relentless cycle with countless variables, yet it invariably culminates in disappointment.

Life is the ultimate Catch-22, a paradoxical conundrum that encapsulates our existence. As depicted in the chart, even when our expectations are met initially, they tend to escalate, surpassing the realm of attainability and culminating in disappointment. To claim exemption from expectations is to imply a state akin to that of a single-celled microorganism, devoid of consciousness. No living being, with hand to heart, can deny harboring expectations, save for the deceased.

Now, as for providing a remedy to counter this cyclic disillusionment, alas, none exists. We endure these perpetual disappointments by virtue of their varying magnitudes, ranging from profoundly devastating to inconsequential. Herein lie a few archetypal degrees of disappointment, each echoing a common refrain:

Case 1: Devastating Disappointment

Consider a girl's fervent anticipation of her long-time boyfriend's unwavering support and commitment, only to discover his absence in her moments of need. While she stood steadfastly by his side through thick and thin, he prioritized every facet of his life—career, family, friends, even the neighbor's dog—above her. This realization shatters her expectations, precipitating an existential crisis and eroding her trust in love and human connections. Despite her best efforts, a lingering shadow of distrust persists.

Case 2: Manageable Disappointment

Two inseparable friends, likened to modern-day Siamese twins, find solace and joy in their shared experiences. However, as one embarks on the journey of marriage and new beginnings, their bond begins to fray. The married friend's priorities shift, leaving her less inclined to spend time with her single companion. Moreover, her well-intentioned but misguided attempts to intervene in her friend's love life inadvertently strain their relationship, leading to a palpable sense of disappointment and distance.

Case 3: Mild Disappointment

An enthusiastic job applicant eagerly awaits the outcome of a promising interview, convinced of their qualifications and preparedness. However, upon receiving the rejection notice, they experience a twinge of disappointment. While momentarily disheartened, they swiftly recalibrate their expectations, recognizing the inherent unpredictability of the job market. Though the setback stings, it serves as a catalyst for resilience and renewed determination in their pursuit of professional fulfillment.

In essence, life's tapestry is woven with threads of expectation and disappointment, each strand contributing to the intricate mosaic of human experience. Yet, embracing a mindset of acceptance and detachment from specific outcomes can offer solace amidst life's fluctuations.

P.S. - Old post alert! This post was sitting in my drafts since 30/09/2016...trying to get back into writing as a means of distraction