by Robin Volker

We begin each day with expectations of the day ahead.  We turn on the Weather Channel and expect certain weather.   We read the newspaper or listen the news and expect certain events to unfold, a certain price of gas or certain response in the stock market.   We have come to expect certain behaviors from our spouse or partner.   We expect certain outcomes from meetings and agreements from our peers.   I have a long-held saying that might be one of the few  Robin Originals:  "Expectations have teeth; they can bite you in the butt."  

How many times have you said something like, "I just didn't expect that."  "I didn't see it coming."   "If only I had of expected that to happen."  One of the benefits of growth in our spiritual awareness is the ability to be present with whatever is, to recognize the present moment as the present moment.   This is what is on our plate right now.  We often push away this moment because we didn't expect it or plan for it.   Instead of trying to expect all the possibilities of this day or this time in your life, can you place your efforts on being present with what is?  It is amazing how the struggle will lessen and the joy will increase.