November 21, 2017
Venerable Wuling in Expectations

When we have expectations, 

the most beautiful rose will prove disappointing. 

Without them, the simple violet can be perfection. 

Having preconceived ideas, we set ourselves up for disappointment.

The real world around us will never match the imaginary one we carry within us in our world of remembrances and desires. With our thoughts of an anticipated outcome, the most beautiful rose in the world will dishearten anyone who carries a preconceived image of what it should look like.

Without desires and anticipation, we can appreciate the simple violet as an object of incredible beauty, our wonder and delight enhanced by our suddenly coming upon it. Not having to meet a preconceived standard, it achieves perfection simply by existing. If, somehow, we could let go of anticipation, we would be able to explore the world as young children investigate everything in their small piece of it. Too young for preconceived ideas, they take newly-found delight in whatever they stumble upon.

Without expectations, so can we.

Article originally appeared on a buddhist perspective (http://www.abuddhistperspective.org/).
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