Thoughts in my head…

We face them each day. Responsibilities. Expectations. 

I remember a colleague who expected me to give her instructions and when I did not, she felt I was not doing my job. She later found out why. This responsibility was not given to me when I arrived. It was an unnecessary misunderstanding. If only we knew from the beginning. It was impossible to deliver what is expected because there was no responsibility mandated.

An example in another setting. Once, make that twice, I inquired publicly about the status of a project. Suddenly, the overseeing was assigned to me. I felt trapped, helpless, knowing that this responsibility was given to me incorrectly. I knew I did not have enough credibility to assure its completion. It hurt when its failure was established. I insisted since the beginning that it should not be given to me but my wishes were disregarded. A classic of expecting a lot from a responsibility that should not have been given in the first place.

At the other side of the spectrum, I was challenged to handle a certain duty. In fact, I sort of volunteered. I felt called to say yes to the call. I believe that I was able to make a difference despite the difficult journey. The reason? I knew what was expected of me when I assumed the responsibility wholeheartedly. I was able to direct all my energies and capabilities, guided by God of course, to do what was expected of me. The responsibilities and expectations were clear.

All of us face responsibilities and expectations. It is just the way it is.

As a student or teacher, as boss or staff, even as a co-worker, a mother/father or child, as a friend, either male or female, grandparents or grandchildren, church leader or member, husband or wife, as neighbors, as buyer or seller, client or supplier, government official or constituent, as a writer or reader, or as any of the many other relationships we could have.

Many who learn what is required of them, accept and deliver. The result is beautiful. But there are others who deny or run from what is rightfully expected of them. We may possibly find real fault in them. What about those who were forced to take responsibilities they knew they should not have assumed? I think they do not deserve the blame. Or maybe just for not saying no? But what about those who could not respond because they do not know what is being required of them? Maybe only because they should have known?  I do not know.

Thoughts in my head…