Growing up patience was never my strong suit; my mind was always racing ahead and my intuition was forever out front. But I have learned quite a lot of its value and can rarely be provoked simply by the words and deeds of others, especially in settings where my opinion matters. I have become by far more rational and discerning in my actions, though no less fervent.
Driving today I was reminded of how small daily actions can grow patience. When people are trying to get over, I allow them in. When I am in a hurry, I remind myself that nothing is more important than arriving safely. When someone has given me the bird for something that I thought they were at fault for, I smile more instead of reacting.
These things may appear to be small, but what I have discovered is that they matter; they make a difference in building patience. They also make a difference in the big things too. Practice doesn't make perfect; practice makes better over time. I find that I am by far more patient having practiced patience in small ways everyday.
2 comments:
LOL! Judith, you are so right. I had to laugh when you said "giving the bird". I haven't heard anyone use that phrase but my mama and sisters, so it cracked me up. I really can't even picture you doing that! You seem like such a patient person.
I'm not as bad as I used to be, but I used to be a horrible type A driver, screaming (like they could hear me) and giving the bird. It's a wonder someone didn't chase me down and try to shoot me!
Great post as we all could use a little more patience. Blessings!
Giving the bird (LOL with you, Marion!) is not what I do. But I have spoken some choice words for those who have cut me off or those who ride so closely behind me with glaring lights as if to intimidate me. As I am forever becoming more of what I will yet be, I am forever practicing virtues and never feel as if I have arrived.
You guessed right. Yes, I am typically very patient, especially with young people, the elderly, friends and loved ones, even with perfect strangers. Where my patience runs thin is with consistent ignorance and arrogance. It's good to know that you are a calmer driver. Most times getting really upset in such situations really doesn't change anything.
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