Disappointment

Dear Friend,

Disappointment is a terrible feeling that we're bound to come face to face with multiple times in our lives. Whether it's receiving a low grade on a test or watching a friend drink copious amounts of alcohol, disappointment is everywhere. Unfortunately, we believe that disappointment isn't something we can avoid for the rest of our life because it is strongly connected to our expectations as human beings. Now let's go back to the situation in which your friend is totally wasted. As you watch your friend transform into a totally different person, you initially may feel some shock. You are surprised that they would do this to themselves and let the situation grow into something they'd most likely regret later on. Once you get past this initial stage of surprise, you begin to feel let down- or rather, your expectations are being let down. You expected your friend to be someone you could depend on and look up to. You know that your friend is actually a graceful and classy person- not one who has a glass of wine in one hand while yelling inappropriate things across the room. Viewing your friend as perfect is where the problem is- ultimately, it's where utter disappointment stems from. When things fail to go our way and don't live up to our expectations, we feel angry, betrayed, sad, bitter...the list goes on and on. Essentially, all of these emotions combine together to form disappointment.

Although we can't really erase disappointment from our lives, there are many ways to deal with it. You could begin by altering your expectations. You cannot expect yourself or others to be perfect, so why waste energy thinking that this world is perfect? Another way to deal with disappointment is not dwelling over outcomes. Outcomes are not setbacks. If something did not go your way, it is natural to feel upset, but don't let these feelings control your life. Realize that you can't change how a situation panned out- what's done is done. Finally, face disappointment with grace. Stay composed while facing challenges and exhibit patience. Once you feel like you have a grip on dealing with disappointment, don't forget to forgive yourself, others, and situations you've experienced disappointment in. Forgiveness is key to truly accepting disappointment.

"Don't let today's disappointments cast a shadow on tomorrow's dreams."

Yours truly,
Kylie and Catherine