Last week I was in Texas preaching, leading a retreat, and visiting friends and family. I confess I was concerned there might be some ‘let downs’ and disappointments during my visit. For starters, I wasn’t able to see a couple of my friends; then the weather turned quite rainy and cold so I was worried there wouldn’t be many people at the retreat; and on the ranch where I stay with my friends Rose and Bill, my favorite horse Hannah had been sold. I was sure I would miss her and feel terribly sad.

To my surprise I had one of the best weeks I’ve ever had in Texas. On Sunday, I was very relaxed and had a gratifying time preaching to a very receptive congregation. At the retreat, more people showed up than we’d expected, and to my delight they were open and participated with enthusiasm.

During the week other unexpected joys occurred. I had a full day to be with my cousin Woody, so we basked in our time together telling old family stories and looking at ancient photos of grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles. The next day I had another unexpected time of glee with my friends Sam and Tracey and their four-year-old son Charlie. I had my first experience of hanging out at Costco’s (wow! that place is enormous) and eating a huge hot dog with Charlie. Later we roamed through an aquarium and saw fish, turtles, and sharks through the eyes of an energetic four-year-old. An over-the-top experience.

Perhaps the biggest surprise came when I met the new horses on Rose and Bill’s ranch. They immediately came up to me and nuzzled their way into the empty space in my heart where Hannah had resided. I relished every minute of feeding, brushing, and talking to them. Something outrageously touching happens when a horse looks you in the eye and gently takes something out of your hand with its velvety soft muzzle. Yes, I confess I lost my heart to Molly and Babe.

My week in Texas reminded me of how ridiculous it is when we have unrealistic or idealistic expectations. Too often we spend an inordinate amount of time worrying about the future or regretting the past. It’s much better to live our lives in the present moment, where we can enjoy things just as they are, and where we likely will find unexpected joys.

God of Unexpected Joys, thank you so much for your marvelous gifts to us, the little unexpected surprises we can find on our journey. Help us to learn to let go of our unrealistic expectations and disappointments. Teach us to open our eyes to all the joys that surround us. Amen.

Joy Carol
www.joycarol.com