Stray cats- Hmmm, interesting- I like the analogy. For me resentments

were feelings I needed to own- either bring them to light as anger,( and deal with it) or examine them as fear, or sadness- Nia

     JD's got it. An expectation is nothing but a resentment in bud. I had one heck of a time getting this one right.
            I expect people to drive sanely - then someone cuts me off.
            I ask for help from a friend - then they forget me.
            I task someone at work with a job - they take too long to get it done.
            I expect a raise - I don't get what I feel I deserve.
            I want to go out - my wife says there isn't enough money left.
            I want to go fishing - it rains.
            I say something in confidence - soon everybody knows.
            I pray to God for something - I don't get it.
     There's a pattern here. An "I" in every one of these statements. Every resentment I had was tied to ME. I want, I expect, I need. When one is living an unmangable life, everywhere you turn you expect something from someone - and don't get it. My perception was that all these things were my right to have and I deserved them. 
      The world's perception of me was somewhat less than mine. My desires and feelings were not exaclty a major factor to anyone but me. I had to release my expectations of others - and God. Temper it with the knowlege that people are not perfect and I don't know squat about what God has in store for me. Instead of anger or forming a resentment, I pray for God's Will in that persons life. I don't ask God for anything but His Will in mine.
     Life is easier and more serene for me now. No drama. Peaceful. Perfect? No. But I sleep well at night and don't sweat the small stuff. Life's too short.
Take care,
Dennis
    

they say an expectation is also a resentment waiting to happen.

i've learned the only person to expect much from is myself.  and i'm trying to forgive.  that's harder than expecting nothing, but a requirement for recovery.

keep praying and working at it.  it will come.  all is possible with God.

God bless.