I recently revisited one of my favourite places, The Rocks in Sydney, originally the home of the indigenous Cardigal people, and later one of the earliest areas of European settlement. I love the history of the place and the quirky old sandstone buildings that have survived despite bubonic plague and urban renewal. Fortunately plans to turn it into high density housing when I was a teenager were overturned and the area has been preserved. I particularly enjoy the Weekend Markets and never cease to be enthralled by the stalls chock full of wonderful treasures. I find the atmosphere of the place both grounding with its beautiful old buildings, and exciting because of its slightly eccentric and vibrant creativity.
Previously, I had feasted on the most amazing linguine, relaxing inside the remains of a tiny convict cell in an old jail. My mouth was watering as I entered the great metal-studded wooden doors set into huge blocks of sandstone, but I stopped stock still when I saw the much-anticipated venue had been turned into a swanky nightclub with the historic ambience obliterated by gilded chairs, glitzy lighting and an updated menu with not a linguine in sight!
My friends and I sat in the courtyard and ate a perfectly delicious meal and had a great time, but it just wasn’t what I had been looking forward to so I was disappointed. I could have cried, but instead I spent extra time exploring the arts and crafts shops and made a point of taking respite in the courtyard of an old coffee house where we sat under ancient trees listening to the songs of native birds. We could have been miles from civilisation instead of in the middle of a large modern city.
I could have sulked and wallowed in my disappointment and spoilt the day for my companions. But, though my appreciation was tinged with a little regret, I chose to be open to what the day had to offer and I was grateful for newly discovered delights and experiences that I would have missed had I left in a huff.
- How have you turned disappointment into discovery?
- How has being fully engaged in an experience led to greater enjoyment?
- What ways have you found to be grateful and how has it impacted on your happiness?
