scribblechic

Planning a special moment I tend to orchestrate events based on a visualized physical manifestation of happiness; my desire to create something beautiful overshadowing the moment itself.  This is a lesson I am learning to embrace after stumbling over disappointment only to uncover a simpler, less structured experience of happiness.

My lesson began with good intentions.  My husband and I made reservations to celebrate our anniversary at the place we said I do.  One of my favorite places, quaint and romantic, I was happy for the opportunity to return; creating new memories among cherished memories.  This is where I should have paused.  The space of our time together was enough.

Instead, I began making new plans and generating an expectation of indulgence.  Specifically, I began to daydream about spa treatments.  My husband never fought my plans, but his silence caught my ear.  I didn’t hear his enthusiasm.  I was making anniversary plans for one, rather than focusing on how I communicated love and respect.  Scented candles and his favorite wine were simple edits to the script in my mind.  I let go.  Replacing exaggerated expectations with acts of kindness created opportunities for new moments of shared happiness.

I encountered an unexpected edit to another expectation upon our arrival.  I assumed I would find my way to the same room my husband and I shared on our wedding night and first anniversary.  Standing in an unfamiliar suite  I pouted.  My husband recognized my disappointment and offered to fix what wasn’t broken.  The simple recognition of my feelings helped me let go of the familiar for something new.  I unpacked our belongings along with my expectations.  When I stopped looking for what I knew, I noticed the abundant beauty of my surroundings.  A tiny shift in my perspective and I began to see more clearly.

Choices became occasions for opportunity rather than disappointment.  I shifted my attention from planning the next moment to relaxing and embracing each moment as it unfolded.  Our anniversary was filled with acts of kindness and conversation balanced with listening.  We share a beautiful life and our ability to respect one another’s needs and let go of expectations was a gift I hope to apply in practice more often.