have an experience that causes one, suddenly and forcibly, to realize sth unpleasant or unwelcome
Unfortunately, we had a rude awakening; in order to go to competition you need money, lots of money! Google
With their citizens taken hostage in Iraq, Asian powers China and Japan have had a rude awakening to the harsh realities of engaging with the world. Google
In the early 1930’s Williston farmers had a rude awakening. Google