“Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed.” – Alexander Pope.

Is this true?
Or is it a dangerous fallacy?

Often, the issue about recognition arises when artists discuss their work.
Will you work for free?
If you’ve put in a day’s work, do you expect a wage?
Of course!
Do you not consume a good cup of coffee, expecting it to give you a bit of a kick?
Do you not start your car, expecting it to be ready to transport you somewhere?
Do you not marry someone, or start a relationship, expecting good things for you, and your partner?
Or is that “hope?”
What then are the semantic differences between expectation and hope?
Should I not expect feedback on my drawings? Seeing that expectation is “wrong!”

I can understand that it’s futile to expect any day to turn out exactly the way you planned.
What if it literally rains on your parade?
Will you be disappointed?
Or will you reckon, “I expect a good day, irrespective of whether the rain arrives?”
That’s the kind of mindset that can recognize something good within any situation.

If you never expect anything, or maybe never even have hope, then why bother?
What is the use of having been blessed with a rich arsenal of potential emotional experiences if you choose to cauterise them by choosing not to expect anything.
Even disappointment is a powerful emotion that can teach a great many valuable things.
When we have experienced disappointment, the antithesis becomes so much more meaningful afterward.

I have expectations from friends.
I expect those who form relationships with me to do “relationship-type” things.
Like encouraging me, guiding me, telling me when I’m not the nice person they once knew.
And conversely, those who form relationships with me can, and should expect the same.
I expect a friend to comment on my art, and my creative output in such a way that I can grow and be nourished.
If that isn’t possible, rather refrain from the casual courtesy comment.
That is just simply insincere,
And an insult to us both.
I always hope that my art touches someone.
I won’t say that I expect awesome feedback.
But I can hope for a comment that nourishes me, pushing me towards more energy for creativity.

Thanks to all those who make the time to write something on a human level, without attempting to pander to what you think I need to hear.
If you, as a friend, dislike my art, tell me. You’ll be doing me a disservice by patronising me.

Blessed are those who know from whom they can expect authenticity!

Breathe appreciative. Live and work mindfully.

Matt