Gifts and curses are both elements that can have a significant impact on a person's life. While gifts may initially seem positive, they often come with unexpected consequences that can make them feel more like curses. This notion becomes evident when considering the various aspects of gifts in the context of their potential downsides. Firstly, gifts can create an immense pressure on the receiver. When someone possesses an exceptional talent or skill, they are often expected to excel in that area. This expectation can be overwhelming and cause stress and anxiety for the person with the gift.
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On the podcast, Caroline comes across to me as a very intelligent, contemplative, and compassionate person, and I think those qualities are reflected throughout this trilogy. I m pleased to say that the third book took what was already there and exquisitely shaped a conclusion that wasn t necessarily kind , but definitely acceptable , and exactly right for the situation.
This expectation can be overwhelming and cause stress and anxiety for the person with the gift. For example, a child who demonstrates exceptional musical talent may be expected to pursue a career in music, which might limit their freedom to explore other interests. Moreover, gifts can cause jealousy and resentment from others.
All gifts are a curse
In this third and final edition to this series, Maeve is struggling with the knowledge that a curse is growing inside her. Her friends are equally distracted by their own troubles. When they realize that their preoccupation has allowed a Christian fundamentalist group to get a larger hold on Kilberg – with teens going missing and in some cases dying – they all have to decide what responsibilities they can accept, be they gift or curse.
I’ve loved this series from beginning to end. I’ve mentioned in the past that it reminded me a little of The Craft, with the tarot and witch’s circle and ancient powers being called up. Add to that the Irish setting, political history, and a fundamentalist group manipulating young people via scripture, and this just SCREAMS my name.
I’m pleased to say that the third book took what was already there and exquisitely shaped a conclusion that wasn’t necessarily kind, but definitely acceptable, and exactly right for the situation. In fact, I loved the ending so much that I hugged the book after I read it. Happy endings don’t have to be flawless, if that makes sense. The nuance makes it so much better – the potential and the hope and the togetherness even in a less-than-ideal situation. It was just perfect. What The Craft wanted to be.
Some of my favorite quotes:
“Every few weeks there’s a story about how American laws are going backward. Could that happen here, too?” [Note: Series is not only set in Ireland but written by an Irish author, so this is particularly noteworthy as an outside-USA pov.]
“But I remember feeling, even though I was frightened, that I was in a Tumblr post about witchcraft. It felt cool and DIY in a way that was instantly photogenic.” [This made me laugh so hard!]
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When someone possesses a gift, they may unintentionally provoke envy and negative feelings in others who do not possess the same talent or ability. This can lead to strained relationships and a sense of isolation for the gifted individual. For instance, a person who excels in academics may face hostility from classmates who envy their intelligence and academic success. In addition, gifts can create unrealistic expectations for personal growth and achievement. A person with a gift may feel pressured to constantly push themselves to improve, often neglecting their own well-being in the process. This constant striving for excellence can be mentally and emotionally exhausting, leading to burnout and a sense of dissatisfaction. For instance, an artist who is considered a prodigy may struggle with feelings of self-doubt and fear of not meeting the high expectations set for them. Lastly, gifts can sometimes be a double-edged sword by overshadowing other aspects of a person's identity. When individuals are predominantly defined by their gift, they may feel a loss of self and struggle to find meaning and validation outside of their talent. This can result in a lack of personal fulfillment and a distorted sense of self-worth. For example, an athlete who is solely recognized for their physical abilities may struggle with identity issues as they age and can no longer perform at the same level. In conclusion, all gifts, despite their initial positive connotations, bring along potential curses that can significantly impact an individual's life. The pressure, jealousy, unrealistic expectations, and loss of personal identity that often accompany gifts can turn them into sources of distress and unhappiness. It is crucial to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of gifts to fully appreciate their impact on an individual's life..
Reviews for "The Curse of Expectation: Why Gifts Can Lead to Disappointment"
1. Emily - 2/5
I did not enjoy "All Gifts Are a Curse" at all. I found the writing to be quite underwhelming and the plot felt disjointed. The characters lacked depth and I couldn't connect with any of them. Additionally, the pacing was inconsistent, with some parts dragging on while others felt rushed. Overall, I was very disappointed with this book and wouldn't recommend it.
2. James - 1/5
"All Gifts Are a Curse" was a complete letdown for me. The concept seemed intriguing, but the execution was poor. The storytelling was confusing and it was hard to follow the plot. The dialogue was stilted and unnatural, making it difficult to connect with the characters. I found myself bored throughout the majority of the book and couldn't wait for it to be over. I regret wasting my time on this poorly written novel.
3. Sarah - 2/5
I was really looking forward to reading "All Gifts Are a Curse" based on the positive reviews I had seen, but unfortunately, it fell flat for me. The writing style was bland and lacked creativity. The characters felt one-dimensional and their motivations were unclear. The plot was predictable and the twists were uninspiring. Overall, I didn't find anything special about this book and it left me feeling disappointed.