Yesterday, I found myself losing my patience.
I had a lot going on with my work and my high school students seemed particularly needy.
Each time I spoke sternly to them I would stop myself and say, “I’m not angry. I’m just really overwhelmed right now” and then I would stop what I was doing and calmly listen to their needs.
By the end of the day, I thought about how good I had been with my students.
I had explained to them that I was stressed, under pressure, and didn’t want to take it out on them…
When I was fearful that my voice might upset them or cause them to become hurt, I stopped my action and self-corrected.
I couldn’t help but be reminded that I must observe this type of patience in all of my daily dealings.
How many times had I not been this kind with adults sure that they should know better?
I’m not the only one under pressure in my day-to-day life.
I’m not the only one struggling with an excessive work load or intense family dynamics, or working to get through a difficult day.
I must exercise patience, show compassion, when dealing with all people, young and old, on days where I feel shaky on my spiritual path.
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“Dear God, help me to be patient with everyone around me. Help me to have perspective and show compassion.”