Of course, not even the greatest grit and determination that is wrapped into patience means that we will achieve all our goals. Those who appreciate patience, and practice it, stay the course; those who don't, surrender.
I learned patience by finding bugs in complex computer programs and designing intricate integrated circuits; and by competing in an able-bodied world. I also learned it from a philosophy instructor who told the class, "Learning patience is hard! If you don't make any effort to master its art, you'll be fighting the odds. Master it and you'll be on your way to mastering yourself."
Patience wears a granite face;
its virtue is golden,
its nature empathy,
its harvest the flowers of success.
Among its companions stand
strength and perseverance.
Patience stands at the crux
of achievements built upon
sweat and sacrifice.
Mastering its art takes
iron discipline,
unlocks monumental rewards.
The secret of patience is endurance.
Its genius demands grit--
the way that love survives hardship:
that time,
walking on cragged peaks,
humbles mountains little by little.
