We all have our share of disappointments. Some have more than others and they run the gamut of examples.
Disappointment for a grade lower than I thought.
Disappointment for being passed over for a promotion.
Disappointment in losing the big game.
Disappointment in one of our children making wrong choices (although we don’t stop loving them).
The list goes on and on. I’m guessing there is a different disappointment for every person who might read this.
So when I write about my disappointment it might seem sort of silly. Juvenile. Frivolous even. So be it. We just had some folks come back from Disney World (Florida). I can guarantee they would have been disappointed if their trip, planned for close to 6 months and costing them some hard-earned money, was not all they had hoped. Fortunately, it was and their three children can attest to that. When you work and plan and work and plan then work the plan and it is not what you thought disappointment is sure to set in.
I’m disappointed. The MS ride I had planned for; raised money for ($800 thank you everyone); trained for and have been looking forward to was canceled. There was a good reason, obviously, or they wouldn’t have canceled it. It is called M-O-N-S-O-O-N. That’s right…a monsoon. I know. I know. Indiana doesn’t have them. Oh yes we do! Especially when Hurricane Gordon decides to send his remnants to the Midwest. It started raining Thursday night/Friday morning sometime and eventually developed into that monsoon I spoke about. By the time Jo & I had driven to Indy; picked up Dave (who flew in from Arizona); and made it to the MS kick-off site, they had already canceled it. Friday. The ride was Saturday. Disappointed yes. Wise decision? Most definitely. It would have been totally stupid to ride in the driving rain and on the slick roads. We received somewhere (I heard) between 5-12″ of rain. I don’t know. What I do know is it was wise to cancel. Not only does the pavement get slick, the lines get like ice. There was a potential for devastating wrecks. And trust me when i say riding in the rain in wet cycling clothes is no picnic. In fact, it just might give new meaning to “Ride from (you know where).”
So…for all of you who gave toward my ride. Thanks. The money still went to the MS Society. For all of those who prayed for a safe ride. Thanks. It was better being safe than sorry.
There is light at the end of the tunnel though. Sun too. 🙂 Dave has asked me to come to Arizona to ride in the MS ride that takes place in Phoenix this coming March. If we can swing it, I plan to do that.
I’m a firm believer there is a purpose and meaning in all of God’s workings. One of these days I’m sure I will see His reason for this disappointment.
Great attitude Bill about the ride being cancelled . Hard to give up doing something you love to do. I have had to give up a lot of singing since I had the heart surgery. All the meds I take causes the worst case of dry mouth I have ever had. Recently I sang at a funeral and my tongue was stuck to my teeth most of the time, in my ears it sounded awful. Someone thought I sounded like I was about ready to cry, I let them think that. I love singing but do very little of it anymore. I consecrate more on speaking at women’s gatherings and teaching when I get ask. Even that is getting harder due to my health issues. Praise God for the wise choice that was made on the bike ride. You certainly do not need another mishap. Hey, it hardly ever rains in Arizona and maybe you will get to see Floyd. Blessings brother.
Thanks Betty. I’m sure not being able to sing is a huge disappointment for you. But you are serving and will serve Jesus wherever He puts you. I’m glad I can write that. 🙂 And if I make it to AZ in March, meeting Floyd is definitely on my list of “Have To’s.”
Disappointment can be debilitating. It can cause us to spiral into depression and bitterness. Even small ones added together over time can do this. It’s a choice about focus. Focus on the good. Focus on the protection. Focus on faith in a God who knows best.
You are right Kari. I have to admit some “down” feelings on the day the ride was supposed to happen. Minor but I know some disappointment leads to depression. Thanks for addressing it.
Oh man, I’m sorry… I know you trained so hard for it and looked forward to struggling for the cause.
It’s a wise perspective to see it as God’s sovereign will.
Look at the bright side; if you ride in Phoenix in March, you and I will have that face to face we’ve been talking about!
I am looking at the bright side my friend. I commented to Betty that seeing you will be on the “have to” list. You just gotta make sure you are there if I come. 🙂
Bill, thanks for addressing disappointment today. I was just saying to my husband that I’m handling frustration better in this season, but still working through what it looks like to weather disappointment well.
It’s always been a challenge …
But I see I’m in good company.
You’re welcome Linda. It seems like it is a never ending battle to live a life fulfilling and joyful. But I’m sure you will do it and do it with grace. Always helps to know others are going through it as well.
I can pretty much guarantee it will be warmer here in AZ than March weather in Indiana. 🙂
If I come out there I’m going to hold you to that! 🙂
Bummer, Bill. The weather has certainly been a challenge this summer. Sorry that you missed the fun of the ride with your friend and that this good cause missed out on some extra attention.
It was a bummer Pam. Lord willing, there will be other rides I can help with.
Disappointing, yes. The right call? You bet! Hope for better luck with the Arizona ride, Bill.
Blessings!
You are correct on all counts Martha.
I’m sorry your ride was cancelled. 🙁 Disapointments like that are tough, even if understandable. But yes, at least everyone was safe! Hope you’ll get to do the ride in March.
Thanks Lisa. it was disappointing but you are right: all were safe and Lord willing, the ride in March will happen.