Blind Pass
jcapinpin@theguidon.com

Expectations reflect the possibility that a certain outcome will actually happen. It gives us a sense of hope to pursue a cause because there is a chance it can happen. It also gives us concrete directions. The goals and expectations we create drive us to make these possibilities into realities.

However, when one does not meet his or her expectations, disappointment and frustration usually follow after. The experience can be painful and hinder us from trying once again. This does not only apply to relationships, but also when it comes to org projects, academics, and competitions, among others.

Hence, to rid oneself of this painful consequence, some people believe that they should also eliminate expectations or refrain from investing themselves too much on whatever cause they are pushing for. By doing so, we hope less and leave the outcome to endless possibilities instead. As most of us today say, “bahala na” or “tiwala.”

Although this may seem to provide a solution to our challenges, the problem with it is that we sacrifice the power to realize our cause. Hope feeds our will, which can motivate us to attain that which we want. We may be much happier with fewer complications, but in the end, is that happiness worth the amount of joy that we could possibly achieve from pursuing our goals? Our expectations should remain intact and so will the possibility of getting disappointed.

So how do we deal with these disappointments? We bravely face them just as Liu Xiang of China and our national 5k runner, Rene Herrera, did in the 2012 Olympic Games.

Liu Xiang was highly favored to win the 110m hurdles after running under 13 seconds twice this season, one of which equaled the world record. Unfortunately, he crashed into the first hurdle due to an injury and this meant the end of his Olympic conquest. As for Herrera, he still had a lap to go when all his other competitors had already finished. He was that far behind and had to finish the race alone.

What happened to these two athletes was heartbreaking and embarrassing at the same time. These two emotions can provoke in us such a strong desire to give up. However, what happens next entirely depends on us. As William Henley said, “I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.”

Liu Xiang and Herrera bravely sailed through the emotional and physical pain that pounded on their pride and body. The former stood up and initially headed towards the dugout. Suddenly, he turned around and hopped with his able leg towards the finish line. Despite being dead last, Herrera kept his composure and still finished the race. Both athletes were applauded by the crowd of 80,000 people for their efforts to finish the race.

We must remember that it’s not always about getting the gold or meeting one’s expectations. Sometimes, it’s about how we deal with the things that put us down. We should not be afraid of having expectations and the feeling of disappointment that may come afterwards. It is only a natural thing. It can be overwhelming and even paralyze us at times but if we can transcend those emotions, we can bravely face defeat with “our head and our honor held high.”