In a moment, our expectations can change and we can change expectations. It just takes us to change our focus and search for the treasure in the situation and to be ready for it.

I think the “treasure” to look for in each situation or person is what God is up to in it/them. If we can see ourselves as spiritual archeologists who are looking for the “lost treasure” in other people’s lives, people might become less of an inconvenience/irritation and more of an adventure. I’m preaching to myself, of course, since I tend to be rather cynical and critical of others, but it IS a lot more interesting if I can try to explore the unknown regions of someone else’s life.

Thanks for the story, April. I’m going to search out what God is doing in someone else today. That will indeed require a few “unexpected side journeys” in my conversations!