What do I expect?!?!?

Every day I have the ability to set my expectations.  Each morning there is a new day before me and I decide what I will expect from my interactions and what I will expect from myself.  This is a revelation for me.  Every single morning, God's mercies are new.  Will I choose to offer mercy to the people around me?

Do I expect each person I interact with to put force their best?  Do I believe each person I do business with really intends to serve well?  Or....do I more often expect each person to be a slacker or one who intends to do the very least to accomplish a mediocre job?  Worse yet, do I think I am more capable and my ability is greater to do this job than the person serving in this capacity?  Do I tear them or their performance to pieces?

This is a daily dilemma for me.  Is it naivete or grace?  Wise as a serpent but innocent as a dove.....or cynical and suspicious vs. naive and a victim?  Shall I keep a positive expectation or beware of a possible attack from an unknown source?

Ultimately, I really do believe most people desire to serve well in whatever capacity they are currently working.  Most people get up each morning hoping to work well and achieve their best in the position they are in.  Most people want to do a good job.  Most people want enough work to keep them busy whether in a paid position, volunteer or working in their home.  And....most people want to feel their contribution is valuable to those they serve.

Everyone has value.  Do I recognize this daily?  Do I notice the person making my coffee at Starbucks?  Do I thank them for doing a great job and for being cheerful?  Do I thank the clerk at the gas station for working on a holiday?  So many times I miss it.  But, I appreciate them so much, I truly do.  I need to tell them more often. It is important, especially in these times, to let people know how much we value and appreciate them.  So many are hurting and feel hopeless.  Let's love them.......it might just change our day into something truly  amazing.

Challenge:  tell five people they have value and why you appreciate them! Do it today......you may not get another opportunity.  Suggestion:  include your husband, wife, kids.....we often forget to appreciate those closest to us.

(c) 2011 Daphne Keys