This afternoon, I had the privilege to sit and listen to one of Cortez's famous talks. The topic and discussion revolved around expectations. One of the first things that Cortez said was that expectations are normal. His emphasis, however, was rooted in how those expectations are formed and our reactions when these expectations are not reached.
Prior to the talk, Cortez was speaking with a few of us Gannon students about how on occasion, he purposely doesn't open the doors until after seven o'clock (which is the normal time that the doors are opened to allow the men into the center). He explained that he does this in order to see their reaction when their expectations of entering the center at exactly seven o'clock have failed them. The men that react in a negative way tend to become angry. While others simply wait and understand that not everything is set in stone.
Another focal point of the talk was the difference between unrealistic expectations and realistic expectations. Understanding the difference between the two plays a large role in whether the men will begin to take the steps to improve their situation or day dream about what could be.
Cortez asked the men about their ideas of the difference between the two and then elaborated on what each type of expectation entails. Unrealistic expectations involve no effort. They consist of day dreams, unachievable goals, and occasionally delusions. These types of expectations bare no results and do not help the situation. Realistic expectations, on the other hand, require input and work. In order to improve their situations, the men need to form realistic expectations of what they can achieve.
Realistic expectations imply that you be realistic and true to reality. This is part of what being at the Father McKenna Center includes: being true to reality. Cortez explained that in order to see results, the men have to be real with themselves and real with Cortez and the staff.
In addition, one of the best aspects of the talk was that it was universal. Anyone and everyone can learn something from it, homeless or not. The messages and lessons can be applied to everyday life.
Overall, super inspiring talk!
-Lydia Archinal :)
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