"Surprise!" – The Element of Surprise is an Element of God

Written by: Hussein Waiyaki
Edited and Reviewed by: Tex Wambui
Life, without surprises, would be mundane and lacking gratitude. It is hardwired into our experience to accommodate the unexpected and the unknown.
There is a reason why people who face the unknown with courage are praised. On a deeper level, there’s an even grander reason why we often say "Thank God" when things turn out fine after facing uncertainty.
Surprises are a key feature of life. We all know people who go to great lengths to create a sense of mystery, keeping their next move secret. In war, the element of surprise can determine victory or defeat. And at birthdays, gifts only hold value when they can truly surprise us.
Life rarely unfolds the way we expect, and when it does, it can become lackluster. Genuine happiness arises when things go in our favor after defying the odds.
The universe, or God if you prefer, knows what is happening now and what will happen next. As humans, we are unique in our ability to experience surprises, because we aren’t omniscient. If we knew everything that was coming, life would lose its meaning.
You don’t know what the future holds, whether you’ll succeed, or if people will keep their promises. But when things do go your way, the result is always the same: you’re surprised.
A life without surprises is a life without fun, excitement, or gratitude. When you’re genuinely surprised, what’s the first thing you say? "Thank you!" or "You are God-sent." In most cases, surprise is accompanied by appreciation and joy.
In the game of life, the element of surprise creates profound experiences that nourish the spirit. Facing the unknown is the only way to unlock the surprises ahead.
So, hear me out: Consider creating surprise in everything you do. Don’t reveal your plans; execute them, then talk about them later. Show, don’t tell.
Talking about your plans beforehand takes away the element of surprise—and you might not even follow through.
Are you surprised that I took a shot at explaining the element of surprise?