The Unexpected

One of my friends and I were remarking to each other that all too often here, in Madagascar, we experience the unexpected. And the unexpected is usually negative in our human eyes. I'm talking about those trivial annoyances that seem to plague our everyday: things taking longer than we'd hoped, an item missing that we normally find in the shops, things breaking down the day it was purchased, or whatever.

But this week the unexpected was an amazing gift! I had the opportunity to go and see the world renowned Avenue of the Baobabs. This avenue has been endlessly photographed by professionals, tourists, adventurers, you name it. These trees, the baobabs, are among the top 10 most famous trees in the world. Standing enormously tall, strangely plump, with this spread of branches at their very tops, they are unique.

  

On My Side Table

 Speaking of experiencing the unexpected, in the negative sense.... I'm realizing that a lot of my anger/frustration stems from unmet expectations. Despite my natural bent to think that the "glass is half-empty," I also have a tendency to think idealistically. Which can set me up for disappointment. Only one chapter into this, and I'm convicted. I have a feeling that I will take my time through this one. I need to digest each chapter and the reflection questions.... 

This is the first Ann Patchett book I've read. I heard her name on the Modern Mrs. Darcy podcast, What Should I Read Next. I'm only three chapters into it so far.