The dictionary defines disappointment as an emotion we feel when there is a failure to fulfill expectations. We’ve all experienced it. And it can be very difficult to come to terms with.
I had one of those recently.
Someone I respected and trusted failed to fulfill my expectations and the results had a fairly significant negative impact. Were my expectations unrealistic? Absolutely not. This was a matter of ethics.
The person attempted to brush off the situation as if it were no big deal, but it was a big deal. My reaction was pretty normal. Anger, hurt, frustration, shock, disappointment. And I lost all motivation to do whatever I was doing to please the person who had wronged me.
Then I had to forgive. Yes, even though I was not the one who had committed the disservice, I had to forgive. I didn’t want to. I wanted to stay mad. I wanted to wallow in my disappointment. I wanted to throw it back in their face at every opportunity. But that would have caused seeds of bitterness to root and grow, and I don’t need that in my life. No one does.
I still have to work through a few things, but I’ve forgiven. It wasn’t easy or pleasant. But it’s done. Time to move on.
Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity. Luke 6:37-38 (The Message)
Inside the Writer 