~The following was written by David Levinson~<p>"
Are hope and expectations really so different?<p>With hope, there is an implied willingness to accept whatever may be.<p>With expectations, the correct outcome has been predetermined, at least in the mind of the person doing the expecting.<p>I learned, and I am grateful that it is never too late to learn, that my expectations were having a devastating effect on my relationships.<p>I learned, that I didn't have to go through the pain and suffering brought about by unfilled expectations only to end up with hope. I found that I could begin with hope.<p>But, in order to truely live with hope I had to be willing, at times, to totally give up my expectations.<p>When I say, "I expect", I reach down within myself to my beliefs, my prejudices, my wants, and my needs.<p>When I say, "I expect", I want others to be and act as I believe they should be and act.<p>But, when I say, "I hope", I realize that:<p>Instead of demanding, I am inviting cooperation.<p>Instead of robbing, I am giving freedom.<p>Instead of stifling, I am fostering growth.<p>When my expectations are not fulfilled, I get upset and angry.<p>I learned that I can choose to live with either expectation or hope.<p>I believe that I either have to let God or be God. <p>I choose to let it be."<p>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ <p>Myself .... I am working on living
with hope and letting go of those expectations that have hurt me and those I love.<p>Let it be. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img] <p>Pepper/Yesterday
