Sunshine and Rain. Expectations and Disappointment.

Hello August.

Really, it’s here already!

And I don't feel quite ready for it yet somehow.

As I reflect on this past July I find myself languishing a little over a month of poor weather that has interfered with my best plans. I always look forward to the return of summer which usually brings with it the anticipation of sunshine and carefree days. But July met me with more rain than I wanted and fewer fun adventures than I had hoped.

Such is the reality of life.

I’m reminded once again that life doesn’t always go as we plan.

Can you relate?

When Expectations Aren't Met

Expectations are not always met. Disappointment cannot be avoided. It seems a harsh reality and it is experienced on many levels in our lives.

Disappointments, I’ve had my share.

We all have, haven’t we?

One might say it’s par for the course.

Unexpected loss.

Financial hardship.

Unwanted diagnosis.

Unfulfilled dreams.

And the list can go on.

What I'm Learning About Disappointment

But here’s what I’m learning about disappointment.

It doesn’t have to determine my outlook on life. I can decide to let go of an unrealized expectation and embrace the resulting disappointment to find healing and contentment.

That might sound like a bitter pill to swallow but it’s actually good medicine. I’ve often found that there’s a lesson learned in my moment of disappointment that benefits me far greater than the great expectation itself.

And here’s something else that I’m learning to appreciate about disappointment. It doesn’t last forever. Just like the rain, it ends eventually. And just as rain is needed to help plants grow, hardship helps us grow.

"For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison."
2 Corinthians 4:17

Waiting for the Sun

I’ve also come to realize that an unrealized expectation does not equate a wrong expectation. It could simply be the result of bad timing. Sometimes I’ve had expectations that were meant for another season and I’ve had to patiently wait for its fulfillment.

It’s like waiting for the sun after the rain.

The sun does shine again.

So I’m encouraged to continue having expectations.

Expectations are necessary for a thriving life. Expectation is hope, and hope feeds personal growth. But I have learned that it is imperative to set the right expectation.

There have been times when I’ve briefly held on to an expectation that was not meant for me and I found myself following someone else's dream.

That could have been detrimental.

Thankfully, I recognized the error of my way and released that dream before it led to destructive disillusionment.

That's why I embrace disappointment. It is the constructive response that leads to contentment, even in the middle of disappointment.

"For I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content."
Philippians 4:11

A Final Thought

Hope and hardship work hand in hand to produce in us contentment.

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Well Now Fitness

I’m Susan, the heart behind Well Now Fitness—a wellness community developed for women like you (and me)—women who are navigating the shifting seasons of life, and who are ready to embrace health not just as a habit, but as a way of life.

With 30 years of experience as an educator, a black belt former martial arts instructor, and a certified group fitness and personal trainer, I bring a unique blend of knowledge, coaching, and compassion to every class and conversation. Holistic wellness in my programs is not just a tagline or an add-on; it’s woven into every detail.

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