Expectations

Mother's Day is one of those days heaped with expectations. Mother's expect to hear from their children, but muli-generaltional families are fraught with problems. Mine is such a family. Not all expectations are good or bad; they are just expectations.

My mother-in-law lives nearby. At age 86 we are the family members near enough to spend time with her. My son on the other hand lives nearby too. He fell into a bit of a mess awhile back and my mother-in-law said some unkind things she thought were helpful. Where does that leave me? A mother-in-law that doesn't have a clue that she is viewed as judgemental and a son that doesn't want to come over if my mother-in-law is among the guests gracing my home.

I have my own expectations of course. I'd like a stress free day where everyone gets along and I don't have to make a meal. Reality says I've got deadlines to meet and laundry to do.

Holidays tend to be celebrated with food rather than the appreciation of family. By yeterday afternoon I could tell I was on edge. I'm not sure if others noticed, but small things really bugged me. The sound of someone chopping on popcorn or standing in my way in the kitchen sent a wave of irritation through me. I think it could be sugar withdrawl.

I thank God that through all this I did not fall prey to thinking food was the answer. I've stayed within my calorie limit and exercised more days this week than I had hoped to do. Expectations can frustrate us when unfullfilled or when they are heaped upon us. Don't let circumstances dictate what goes in your mouth. Instead, have a plan. God will give you the strength to do the right things but you are responsible for doing your part. Make a plan and He'll help you stick to it.