Expectations

Expect the unexpected.

Oscar Wilde

A row of Locusts line the avenue in front of our condo. They are quite large and produce a number of bright green leaves every spring. Until this year, when the tree directly in front of our window displayed several bare branches. While all the trees surrounding it showcase an abundance of lush foliage. It doesn’t appear to be dying. Possibly, just conserving its strength. I assume by its size, it’s old and could be tired. Maybe, it just needs a rest. I can sympathize with that.

The problem, for me, is I don’t want to see its bare branches. Why does it have to be this particular tree? Why couldn’t it be the tree next to it, out of my direct line of vision. I don’t want to be reminded of the frailties of age. I know it very well. Besides, all of its contemporaries are the same age and they appear to be doing well.

There is a part of me that feels guilty because I can’t show this poor Locust more compassion. It is disappointing that it doesn’t meet my expectations, but isn’t that often the case? Not everything measures up to what we think it should be. Comparing this tree to its neighbors is unfair. It could be affected by something I can’t see. Maybe, I should focus on the many branches still producing a volume of lush green foliage.

Often, our expectations aren’t met. That’s life, isn’t it? Expect the unexpected and deal with it. In the scheme of things a few bare branches are not a tragedy. Possibly, we are judging both ourselves and others by too high a standard. I’m going to work on giving this particular tree a break.