My dad was probably the most patient person I’ve ever known, and I wish I had been able to have more time with him… maybe some of his easy-going approach to life would have rubbed off on me. I have patience with other people, but not myself. I’m forever trying to rush ahead, barreling through one thing to get to the next; nothing can happen quickly enough for my liking. Perhaps because I expect too much from myself. Sometimes I feel so far behind (usually when I’m comparing myself to others), and I am weighed down by enormous pressure (from myself) to catch up as quickly as I can. I forget to remember that everyone has had different life experiences, they’re not operating on the same schedule as my life is, and that it has taken most people (of course there are always exceptions) time and hard work to get to where they are now.
Patience is a a learned quality. I don’t think it’s one of those innate gifts that certain people are naturally and magically blessed with. It’s something we have to work at. Which is why I love this quote: it’s such a good reminder to allow yourself to move a little bit slower. All of the beauty surrounding us didn’t get there overnight, there were millions of years worth of growth.
* This definitely won’t be the last Emerson quote you see on the blog – he had so many great insights on life.
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@ Alison – I can definitely relate to that! I worry about everything under the sun and it. is. EXHAUSTING. I find that writing everything I’m worried about down helps to get it out of my mind. And often, the things I’m worried over look less scary on paper. Hopefully we can both find some zen in our lives! :)