the Unexpected

We often hear the phrase “expect the unexpected” (coined in an Oscar Wilde play) – and yet life is not always so simple. Surprises are common; we get to choose how we react and respond to them.

Last night as I was watching a hockey game, I was reacting – with enthusiasm. Loudly.
It startled my dog – poor thing hasn’t been with me through a hockey season yet, so he did not understand why I was commenting loudly to the box of moving pictures. As my emotions were raised, his head tilted further to the side.

He had no basis for this experience; and while he’ll learn (Go Jets!) it was unsettling for him. He knew he was safe, and he knew I was going to be okay – but the behaviour is not the norm – and it baffled him.

We can all face times when the curveballs of life shock us; and we need to decide if we will react (as I did to the goal) or respond (as he did to my reaction). A reaction is an immediate reflex, usually begun before logic can prevail; whereas a response is a more considered action that aligns values and intention with rationality.

With spiritual maturity, we recognise that life’s unexpected moments are quite common – and that our faith keeps us grounded so we do not get overwhelmed by them. We can prepare ourselves for the concept of the unexpected, through prayer and meditation and community connections. It won't eliminate surprises, but it will better equip us for how we want to respond when they do happen.

We know that life is full of ups and downs, of times where we expect certain things, and times when life surprises us. Ideally, we can frame our expectations in such a way that we are ready for the adventure that life may throw at us; so that rather than disappointment at unexpected outcomes, we live in joyful anticipation that God is guiding the journey.