Sacred Contracts XXVI: Expectation

 
"Expectation is the root of all  
heartache." ~ Shakespeare  
 
The reunion of clouds arrived  
this morning, shaking rain  
from slaked coats in the doorway;  
I welcomed them as always  
though it was not always so;  
 
I offered the most comfortable  
room, overstuffed chair, played  
the music they enjoyed, served  
their favorite tea and biscuits    
on the best China I owned;  
 
They mingle about the rooms  
saucers rattling, telling stories  
to hatchlings in the chimney  
their gaping mouths expect  
much more than tales they told;  
 
I’ve come to anticipate their visit  
when my heart grows restless,  
meanders about searching for  
something other than contentment  
an unsolved mystery, perhaps;  
 
The clouds leave their dark gift  
of Expectation on the entry table.  
Something I proudly donned upon  
my sleeve after they’d leave; expecting  
a return for everything I’d give;  
 
It took lifetimes to learn politeness  
doesn't mean accepting offerings  
out of obligation, or fear of what others  
may think if we reject that which  
restrains our personal evolution;  
    
It lies there untouched. It’s taken  
this lifetime to master the gentle  
acceptance of what must be learned  
and what to let go of; the essence of  
giving without expectation of return;  
 
After tea, conversation, and cakes  
they prepare to leave; we hug, kiss  
until we see each other again.  
It's not how often they visit, but  
how long they feel they must stay;  
 
To those who resist they’ll persist  
as a schoolmarm’s duty to teach.  
Their visits grow scarce; whereas once  
they stayed for years, now barely hours;  
I’m grateful they honor our contract;  
 
When I'm done writing I'll clean  
gather up all the China in the sink,  
admire the false beauty of their gift  
before trashing it; fully expecting  
wherever they are, they’re smiling;  
 
They’ll find a few moments to spare  
the next time around. But, my Spirit  
tells me, having overcome their test,  
it will be in passing only. "So, prepare  
for your final teacher – Love itself";  
 
"All you think you know, or ever known  
has been a mere catalyst up to now."  
 
~