Disappointment is a part of life for us all

Disappointment is a frequent travel companion along the road of life. At times it seems to be the only one who cares enough to accompany weary travelers. It can ride in the front seat, the back seat or the trunk. It can whisper in your ear or shout as loud as a crack of thunder in a summer electrical rain storm. It is that feeling we experience when we are denied what we want or believe we richly deserve.

I had a major disappointment in 1975 when the Hoosiers did not win the NCAA because Scott May broke his arm and could not play to his potential. Al Gore was disappointed when he lost the presidential election to Bush over the chads and "chadettes" in Florida. The Republican Party was disappointed when Gen. Sherman said, "If nominated I will not run if elected I will not serve." Johnson used that statement and claimed it as his own. Shameless. Robert E. Lee felt it when going to meet Grant at Appomattox.

The Ford Motor Company felt disappointment with the failure of the Edsel. Gov. Mitch Daniels was disappointed when he decided to drop out of the race for president. So was the Republican Party. They thought he would be a winner. Disappointment abounded. It reminded me of the time Sen. Lugar thought he could win.

The Colts have had a very disappointing year without quarterback Peyton Manning and some key defensive players. The record indicates the anguish felt this season with two wins and 14 losses. However, they can choose first in the draft and could get a winner. I, however, remember when the Colts drafted another player from Stanford and he refused to come. What ever happened to John Elway? Does anyone know?

I have many pictures in my mental scrap book of jobs I wanted so desperately but did not get. I am still waiting to hear form a job interview I had in 1976. My optimism is beginning to waver.

The most recent and largest potential for disappointment flaunted itself in the past month and it involved Tessaroo the Buckaroo our 5-year old granddaughter. We draw for and then open sock gifts one at a time. Tess has an American Girl doll -- Julie -- who has a seriously deficient wardrobe. She had Gramma Van's name this year so she thought it would be a great idea to get her some material. When Gramma opened her sock and found the material she asked, "Tess, what is this material for?" Tess replied, "I thought you could make some clothes for Julie." "What if I decide to make some clothes for me?" Tess did not hesitate and stated, "That would be OK but it would be a disappointment." That brought down the house with chuckles and oohs and aahs that she spoke with such erudition.

Tess had not opened her gifts yet so little did she know that Gramma Van had already sewn a complete wardrobe for Julie. Guess what? She is going to get more. Gramma would not think of disappointing her.

Larry grew up north of Calvertville on a farm and graduated from Worthington High School and Indiana State University. He can be reached at Goosecrick@aol.com or (317) 839-7656. He has written five books. Contact him to purchase them.