A Pause In Lent No. 4: Patience

Valour: Pursuit of Knowledge Generosity: Pursuit of Charity Liberality: Pursuit of Will Diligence: Pursuit of Ethics Patience: Pursuit of Peace Kindness: Pursuit of Love Humility: Pursuit of Modesty

Today I'm considering "Patience - pursuit of peace"

"the pursuit of peace"  I find this an interesting addition, as whenever people talk about "patience" I think the first thing they think about is the idea of waiting for something, as illustrated above. But, of course, as any child who is looking forward to their holiday knows, one can wait, but wait impatiently.

The point about patience is the attitude in which one waits. If the soul is at peace, then the waiting is done patiently.

I need to be "at peace" whilst I am waiting...whatever it is I am waiting for. Whether I am waiting for a child to complete his homework, for the late train, for the old lady in front of me to stop talking and pay for her bread...it won't happen any quicker if I'm tutting, or tapping my foot, or swearing under my breath. Nor will it help the person I'm waiting for if they hear my noises of agitation and impatience. In fact, often it will make matters worse.

And while I find it difficult sometimes to find that "right attitude", to find the peace within me that I need to be patient, I should remember that Christ said: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.

Christ has made it possible to at least begin to grow the fruits of the spirit, one of which is patience

...we need to try to be the fertile ground in which these fruits can grow.

Though, let's be honest: that's easier said than done!