“If you expect nothing from somebody you are never disappointed.” -Sylvia Plath Expectations are the strong belief that something will happen or be the case. More than anything else, our expectations determine our reality and impact those around us. In a self-fulfilling prophecy, people may rise or fall depending on their expectations and beliefs. This anthology will discuss the disillusionment brought by our expectations. Recognizing the paradox of expectations, the invaluable lesson of learning about sufferings from disenchantments, and coming to a deeper understanding at the crux of the illusion of life, has encouraged the writers to share their stories. Through their work, they have portrayed that when we start to experience and understand the freedom in letting go of unrealistic expectations and embracing gratitude and the present. It doesn’t suddenly make the gap between what we have and what we want disappear, but it does allow us to regain our happiness. It also creates space in our head. Space that’s no longer absorbed by negative emotions and hostile thoughts. Learning to accept what is rather than what should be is powerful. Thus, enforcing the idea that the antidote to expectations may be cultivating gratitude. When we learn to let go of our unrealistic expectations, an open road unfolds right in front of us. One full of new possibilities, ready and waiting for us to create your own path.