Bell....I am not one to let this die either. I have my own bone. Expectations caused me enormous pain...for me that is a given. I lived it. Hope on the other hand is something I have had alot of dicussions about and I think I like your take. I can have hope that my son will turn his life around or I can have faith in a plan removed from my choosing. I think I like the latter verson.
You are right...faith in an outcome that might not be what I would have chosen is not always easy. But it gives me a comfort that neither expectations or hope can come close to.
Expectations hurt. I grew up watching the sanitized families in the 50's/60's sitcoms. That is were my expectations sprouted while I conveniently ignored the reality that was all around me. That grew into expectations of my family (and myself L.) while again I was ignoring what was really happening. (Another of those words...denial) Expectations and hope create a state where reality is suspended. Not the most healthy way to live.
I am always learning...
JT