These are all related questions we, at some point in our lives, have asked ourselves. I am fairly sure that before we even stepped foot through the school doors, all staff members and students had some sort of expectations set for themselves and goals they want to meet this year. Some are as simple as running for Homecoming Queen, while others are more complex; going to State or getting straight A’s. Whatever they are, these visions are what help us look into our future and shape the person we will be in the outside world.

“My daily expectations are to try hard in class no matter how much I hate it. Also, for one day to live outside of Concan and Texas,” Patty Arteaga, junior, said.

Before I start, let’s first learn the difference between an expectation and a goal. A goal is just a desired outcome, for example, “my goal is to finish the two mile run in 13 minutes.” Where, an expectation is what you expect of yourself presently and future wise through dedication, for example, “my expectation is to always give100% in everything I do.”

Since you were an infant, these ideas have helped form the student you are in school. Your parents most likely set expectations they wanted you to live by since your childhood, for example: do not get into trouble, be responsible for your actions, and always give your best. Then as you grow older you start building your own expectations for yourself.

As seniors this year, my classmates and I have many expectations and goals we have to fulfill before we graduate and afterwards. For one, we have to take our SAT/ACT, get into the university/college we want, pass our classes, and hopefully leave with memorable memories here at Sabinal High School.

“My biggest goal is to be able to graduate with the degree and knowledge of a certified nurse. Yet, my expectations are to work at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio, where I hope to work until retirement comes around and I have to step down,” Adriana Alejandro, senior, said.

Since I was old enough to comprehend I was responsible for my future, I always had very high expectations for myself: never giving up and being the best I am capable. However, in time I have realized that even with these expectations, I had to accept the fact that it will not always turn out the way I wanted it to.

Remember that your goals and expectations are just vision of what you want to achieve. Do not punish yourself if you do not meet them. Have in mind that every time we rise from falling, we are made stronger.

Having expectations and goals is crucial to having a successful future. We can not depend on fate; we have to make it happen. God wants to meet you halfway, so, before today ends, think about what you expect yourself to achieve for tomorrow and the future.

“It is for us to pray not for tasks equal to our powers, but for powers equal to our tasks, to go forward with a great desire forever beating at the door of our hearts as we travel toward our distant goal.”

~Helen Keller