The Practice of Patience :: Lessons in Everyday Life
It Happens to Many of Us
Starting each day is truly a blessing, a reminder that life is filled with opportunities to grow—even when it feels like we’re barely holding on. We’re given challenges that stretch us, but we often find we have the strength to handle them. The values our families teach us stay with us daily, guiding us through the moments when life seems to pause and patience is tested. Challenges come in many forms, but our reaction to them shapes the final outcome.
Tough at Times
There are countless reasons to learn patience, and in our family, it’s a lesson we revisit often. My husband and I remind each other to stay calm, to choose patience over quick reactions. Homework time, for example, takes endless patience, especially with how much teaching methods have changed over the years. The routines of home life, the nuances of communication, even small things like deciding what’s for dinner—all these can test our patience. When life gets hectic, as it often does with busy schedules and long days, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But it’s in these moments that true learning happens.
With my husband’s demanding work schedule, patience is both a challenge and a necessity. Balancing housework, taking care of a teenager, two dogs, and helping with homework—sometimes all on my own—can push patience to its limits. Yet, we are grateful for our older kids’ help when available; their support is a reminder that family is a team effort, and together, we manage to keep things steady.
All in All
The most important lesson is that patience rewards us in ways we might not immediately see. Learning, trying, and doing teaches us to turn moments of impatience into valuable growth experiences. Our kids face moments that test their patience too, whether at school, work, home, or with friends. As they learn, they grow, and through watching us, they understand patience from many perspectives.
Life will always present moments that require patience. It’s about learning to manage our reactions and choosing calm over quick responses. Patience is key to navigating the challenges and making the most of the beautiful life we have. It’s a precious lesson that brings us closer to living fully and meaningfully.
