From my perspective, expectations are the preconceived notions we carry about ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. They shape our perceptions and influence our experiences, potentially acting as a double-edged sword. While they can provide a roadmap for our aspirations, they can also confine us, limiting the potential for growth and authentic joy. As I navigate a significant transition in my life, I have come to realize just how impactful these expectations can be, particularly as they relate to the unfolding of my personal life journey.
I find myself closing the chapter on one of the most formative periods of my life, a time filled with invaluable lessons, tears, and the bittersweet process of letting go. I have shed friendships, unlearned habits, and challenged long-held beliefs, all in pursuit of a deeper, more meaningful joy. One that emanates from within rather than relying on external achievements. This joy is not fleeting; it is rooted in a profound love, understanding, and respect for myself.
Achieving this state of joy has not been an easy task. It has demanded relentless work, patience, and above all, compassion and grace. It has required the courage to confront and dismantle my beliefs, to break myself down so that I could clearly see the pieces of my identity. In this process, I have learned to reassemble those pieces that resonate with my true self, allowing me to leave behind the fragments that no longer serve me, along with the people tied to those fragments of my past.
During my birthday week, I reached out to a friend and shared a revelation: I feel “drunk on life,” a sensation that is particularly comical given my decision to abstain from alcohol for a while now. This intoxication comes from various sources of joy that have emerged in my life. I revel in the beauty of my natural 4C curls, which have become a symbol of my authenticity. I am deeply grateful for my marriage and the love I share with my husband, a bond that enriches my existence. The friendships I cherish are filled with reciprocity, making each connection feel meaningful and fulfilling.
I am also overwhelmed by the warmth of my mother’s smile, which serves as a reminder that organic joy can still emanate from her. My heart swells with adoration for my fur baby, Kimi, who brings boundless joy into my life. Most importantly, I have begun to appreciate my own beauty, both inside and out, in ways I have never before, recognizing that I was worthy of this deep love of self and happiness long before I realized I could gift it to myself rather than seek it from someone else.
This week, I felt enveloped in love, and I have this marvelous sense that this feeling will continue to blossom in the coming days. This transition, while fraught with challenges, marks the beginning of a deeper connection to joy that is rooted in my soul. By releasing my rigid expectations and embracing the unfolding of my life, I have opened myself to a world filled with possibilities.
My journey of self-discovery and transformation is ongoing, and it is essential to recognize how our expectations can shape our experiences. By letting go of preconceived notions and allowing ourselves to be vulnerable, we create space for authentic joy to flourish. I am filled with hope and excitement and an eagerness to embrace the profound joy that awaits me in this next chapter.
Share this post