I found that when I didn't know what to expect the best thing to expect is nothing. That way, I cannot be disappointed, but it is possible to be pleasantly surprised.
I find that reaction is always bad. Maybe just a choice of words, but you did use that one. I try (and it is often a struggle) to "Listen, Consider, and Respond" rather than reacting. Reacting implies to me that my actions are directly motivated by the situation, meaning the situation is controlling me. I'm am therefore out of control.
