Antelope Canyon Arizona by Chris MaioHow often do we let our minds jump ahead into the future to fill in the pages of our life story before it unfolds? Anticipation about the future fosters expectations either about events and/or the people we encounter.  Disappointment results when those expectations are not met. A simple illustration of this phenomenon can occur when a new movie comes out that is all the rage. Your friends all tell you how great it is and you have to see it. However, by the time you watch the show your expectations are so high that you find yourself a little disappointed.

Some of my peak life experiences have occurred when my canvas is blank and I have no expectations going into a situation. What unfolds holds mystery and makes life interesting.  Preconceived notions about how life “is supposed to be” can stifle natural creativity. When we loosen our grip on our need to know, or forsafety and trust our Inner Guide (Holy Spirit) new realms for growth and healing will appear.

The following story is a lovely reminder not to judge our experience as either good or bad but to greet life’s unfolding with an open mind and heart.

Liz Sorensen Wessel

Photo by my niece, Chrissy Maio

 

4 responses to “Days 297-298: Maybe”

  1. Anne Milligan Avatar
    Anne Milligan

    VERY true and extremely timely for me… Thanks Liz…

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  2. Erie Chapman Foundation Avatar

    Terrific essay, Liz, and a completely stunning image from your niece! Yes, it is remarkable the way well-meaning friends and family can damage our experience of beauty. This happens when they promote an art experience so aggressively they steal a key part of our experience – that chance to experience the joy of DISCOVERING the beauty on our own – and thus integrating it as part of our experience rather than theirs.
    The ‘Maybe’ story is a great old fable. The version I heard ends with the soldiers going off to war and all being killed – thus the boy’s life is saved because of his broken leg. But, the point is the same – Misfortune can lead to fortune and the reverse. How do we handle either?

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  3. Woody Wessel Avatar
    Woody Wessel

    Life is what happens while your busy making other plans. Chrissy took a great picture.

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  4. Maureen McDermott Avatar
    Maureen McDermott

    “Maybe” – what an open attitude? Thank you Liz. Superb photo, too.

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