Member-only story
With No Expectations Come No Disappointments
When others make you suffer, you’re still the one who has the remedy
“Do what you said you’re going to do” was the refrain of my childhood.
My dad, in particular, insisted on educating me by the “man of his word” principle.
He used to say that when you stand by your promises, people value you. It’s a quality that will make you stand out.
And so, I grew up with a strong sense of following through with my promises. It felt natural.
What my dad forgot to tell me, however, was that most people don’t follow through.
D’oh, I guess I should have asked myself earlier why would others value me for doing what I promised. Obviously, because it’s such a rare thing.
Anyway, the point is that I became this person who wouldn’t let people down AND who wrongly expected the same from others.
I’ve been waiting for you for half an hour already, and you’re telling me you’re not coming? What if I hadn’t called you? Would you have even had the decency to tell me you’re not coming anymore?!!!!
You said you’ll help me with… What? Oh… I see… I’m sorry to hear. No, but… Yeah, OK, I get it…
