By: Bronwyn Ison
In our accelerated society patience is a newfound art. The proverbial phrase, “Patience is a Virtue,” dates back to the fifth century according to Wikipedia. Our daily interactions with others can provoke our patience. Have you attempted to meet an appointment across town and find you are stopped at every red light? Each of us has been in this predicament. You find yourself yelling at the lights. Quite silly when you put some thought to the scenario.
Dictionary.com defines patience: the quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like.
The definition suggests we fill some big shoes. Submitting to patience in every endeavor can be challenging. Patience is an art form. It is also something that can be developed. Are you practicing patience? Each event is circumstantial. While you may be composed in one arena of your life other situations or relationships typically require more diligence. Conducting yourself with authentic patience in all activities may be a daunting and tedious task. Two separate thoughts came to mind. First, each of us needs forbearance. Yet, I began to ponder and concluded with my second thought, what if we approached all of our actions with genuine patience? Wouldn’t this render life more harmonious? I deduced the answer is, yes.
Virtually every relationship and each action requires patience. Hence we attempt what we do and say with calmness. One can admit this is challenging. If you can learn to manage what triggers your blood to boil and why, you can begin practicing better control. How can one develop greater patience in their life?
Pause in the moment and stop wrestling with yourself. It is likely another person’s actions are a catalyst to you restlessness. The only person tortured is you. The other person (unless you express yourself) has no idea of your stress level. Release the clinched jaw and breathe.
Are you continuously combating impatience with a particular person? Meet and discuss your relationship. The other party may feel exactly as you do. Demonstrate your patience by not engaging in a heated discussion. Meditate or pray prior to meeting.
It is possible you enjoy living on the edge and your impatience provides an adrenaline rush. This may sound ridiculous but true. You enjoy the fight and challenge life has to offer. Yet, think about the unnecessary stress you are creating in your body. Stress is a silent killer. Does this sound like you? Gain control of your life. Relax. Strive to create your own harmony and liberate yourself of your personal drama.
Finding patience in our lives is a lifelong pursuit. Soften, settle, and breathe.
Bronwyn Ison, Owner of Evolve Yoga. www.e-volveyoga.com (760)564-YOGA
