If you are anything like me, everyday there are opportunities for frustrations. It is easy to get frustrated over what we see happening in our nation and world, on the job, in our schools, the political arena, etc. We tend to get frustrated with church and church leaders and sometimes, just everything!
Ever wondered why?
Other than the fact that we are living in tense times and everyone seems to be on edge, we are naturally always looking for the negative in every situation, conversation, social media post and comment.
I am trying to live my life by the principle I am sharing with you today. It’s a challenge and it’s a discipline.
We tend to be frustrated due to our level of expectation. We “expect” high and “experience” low and therefore we get frustrated, withdrawn, negative, complacent, defensive and rebellious.
We naturally want to defend ourselves and our feelings along with dwelling on things as we see them, however, the truth is, the way we see things are not the same as reality many times.
I can’t tell you how many times I was convinced social media posts, rants, and comments were directly related to me or about me and our church, (and some probably were) and it is also amazing at how many people think that something I post, say, or comment about, was directly throwing shade at them. It’s a bizarre way to live that is exhausting and also extremely demonically divisive.
For one, I am trying to practice what I preach here. The graph says it all. Thinking better of people is one way to also not step into that trap.
Also, maybe we need to lower our expectations and then reality wouldn’t sting so bad.
What do you think?
If we didn’t expect our spouse to do this or that or our kids to do this or that, then when they did or didn’t, there would be less of a surprise and less of frustration.
Expectations without communications is a fairy tale.
Let’s always have the conversations of what we expect and never assume or expect someone to fulfill something without clarity and understanding.
Just this small tweak can free us from a prison of emotional baggage and help our relationships be healthier and stronger in the long run.
Have a great week!
Eric Camp for MS House District 111 