By Danae Reid
A years’ end always causes a scrambling that forces us to think about how incredibly fast the last 12 months have gone by, and how much has changed within that span of time.
The culmination of 2019 marks not only the end of a year, but also the end of the decade. Both have left me in this perpetual state of reflection and precognition that I cannot manage to escape; Who was I (in the past)? Who will I become (in the future)? What will I learn? What have I learned?
Retrospection has always been my “forte,” however, I cannot say that I’ve always been so proactive in changing the mutable. Because of that, I made the decision earlier this year that this was no longer acceptable, so I needed to make a change.
I knew that my main and perhaps greatest fault to be addressed was my lack of patience. I cannot say whether that this fault was created by natural anxiety, or if my anxiety is the subsequent root, but what I do know is that the two have produced an impulsivity in me that has at times worked towards my detriment.
Initially, the task at hand appeared insurmountable: How does one change such a thing? Was it even possible? Was it really even necessary? The answer to the latter was simple, but finding an effective means to amend my struggle proved arduous. Not knowing where else to turn, I prayed for guidance.
I found myself progressing gradually. I started to pray more intently and consistently, write in my journal, and incessantly reminded myself that God’s timing is paramount. Although the process didn’t feel intrusive, my life instantly began to bare more fruit.
By cultivating a life that holds forbearance in high esteem, I’ve adopted healthier attitudes towards times of waiting, my interpersonal and external relationships have improved, and my relationship with God has morphed into something that cannot be conveyed through words.
One of the most “unfortunate” things about the human condition at present is that we’ve been conditioned to crave immediate gratification and to abhor the process. Social media certainly plays a part of this mindset, because we’re always being coaxed into comparing ourselves to those around us. During these moments, it’s important to remember that your timeline is isolated and that God’s delay is not a denial.
This year of practicing patience has shown me the beauty in being forced to endure both the preeminent and problematic facets of being; doing so has positively shifted my life experience.
Someone once gave me this advice after I told them of my bout with impatience — “Would you rather have chicken that’s been slow-cooked in the oven or nuked in the microwave?” The concept seems simple, but it’s something that’s stuck with me.
Although I’m still not the most patient person this world has seen, I have actively improved in all areas of my life. That being said, if you’re contemplating what your New Year resolution could be, I suggest putting forbearence at the forefront.
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The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the article belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, The Philadelphia Sunday SUN, the author’s organization, committee or other group or individual.
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