Week 29
God, what guidance do you have for me today?
Today,
let patience have its perfect work.
Do not be hasty to confront, but see what
there may be for you to learn and grow from.
Even in the midst of any frustration you encounter,
remember that everyone is doing the best they can,
including you.
Let patience lend its wisdom to your concerns,
and bring everything to me in prayer.
Remember, the ups and downs of life
are part of a larger context, offering experiences
that help the soul mature.
Today, experience the power of patience.
Wait for divinity’s grace.
Let compassion enter the door of
your worries, challenges and fears.
Even allow yourself to see humor
in the folly of it all.
And let kindness rule your actions,
your words and your heart.
Week 29
Evening Reflection
Today was very challenging in the patience department. I was trying to plan a 25th birthday dinner for my daughter; who wanted to eat at a very expensive restaurant that I didn’t have the budget for, especially paying for 6 people. As I tried to find other options and put forth other scenarios, the day became an exercise in navigating frustration, desire, reality, hope, ego and other myriad human condition issues. Plus, the older brother was in town and would be meeting my daughter’s boyfriend for the first time. It all needed to be perfect! In addition to all of that, I was also navigating within myself some sensitive personal issues that were on the front burner.
This guidance to be patient turned out to literally be a Godsend. That being said, I experienced that actually allowing patience to play out in real time instead of choosing to be controlling is truly and exercise in the practice trusting divinity to work out what doesn’t seem to be working out. This is where past experiences can help one to have faith. The Creator has no problem working things out if we let go and let God. Well, today, the divine Presence was a beautiful thing to behold. I received a surprise check in the mail that allowed me to cover dinner! We all had a great meal and celebration, and the brother and new boyfriend hit it off. My wife, who was privy to the entire goings on, just looked at me with a knowing smile that patience did perform its perfect work.
How was your experience with this virtue today?