It was disappointing to a colleague that I wasn't able to attend a recent celebratory event. With greater lead time and communication, I would have likely attended the virual celebration, but because I didn't really understand what was going on and I was pulled in another direction, I did not attend. In some ways, the pandemic year, broke up the good communication and culture of that life arena. It was no fault of any particular person, but instead the fact that the pandemic called me in multiple other directions leaving this one area diluted and fractured to some degree.
How and when we communicate does make a difference with respect to the many cultural groups we belong to. Staying in touch in a regular fashion has the potential to strengthen cultural bonds if done well. Of course, communication gone awry can do just the opposite.
None of us want to disappoint others, yet we know that will happen even if we don't intend it since we are all pulled in many directions. But for the most part, if we plan ahead, clearly understand the expectations, and stay faithful to the groups we honor, respect, and enjoy being apart of, disappointment will be less. Onward.