We all have heard someone say this simple phrase in a meeting. It is very profound in its meaning, and we all have a good idea of what it means. Some would say it’s about being grateful for what I have, whether in abundance or lack thereof.

After listening to others’ explanations of its meaning, I, of course, have come up with my own. There is a third part of that puzzle, “Is the glass the right size.” The size is in reference to my expectations. The higher my expectation the larger the glass is. Whatever is inside will always become smaller. When my expectations are low, or not at all, the glass becomes much smaller, and what’s inside can spill over the edges.

Keeping my expectations in check is a lifelong endeavor. In almost four decades of attending meetings all over the United States and a few European countries it seems expectations are a defect we all need to put on our list. The difference today is that I know when I am doing it, and have a choice, in that moment, to either lower that expectation into reality or drop it all together. Most days I am successful, but when I let my EGO take command and expect more than others can give, I pay the price. I have to make many mistakes for it to fully sink in.

In the Big Book stories, Doctor Paul said, “My serenity is in inverse proportion to my expectations. ” This is a good reminder to paste on my refrigerator at home or on the bathroom mirror. Some days, I can’t be reminded enough. It is about progress, not perfection, anyway.