One of the things I’ve learned from this pandemic is that the sting of disappointment is lessened with each subsequent incident.  Sure, I was looking forward to crossing the Maldives off my bucket list.  Yes, I was thrilled with booking an over-the-water bungalow complete with a pool for next to nothing (thank you Marriott points!)  Plus, I was excited to travel on a 17.5 hour flight to Bangalore – direct flights are the best.  And to cross 2 countries off my list so early in 2022 – another point of excitement.  Yet, when the flight was cancelled, one leg at a time, I wasn’t as disappointed as I thought I’d be.  Perhaps with each cancellation I’m simply numb to it.  Besides, there’s a lot more important things going on in the world.  And, having just been to Peru, I could use some downtime at home.  Moreover, this is just a blip and I’ll get there someday!  Matt, otoh, was thrilled as the prospect of a long flight didn’t thrill him.  Our couple friends that we were destined to travel with were understandably disappointed.  One thing I know is that there will always be a flight deal and a plan that works out.  Perhaps letting go of expectations is the true way to happiness.