Patience

My four-year old nephew Ben is a going concern. Smart, articulate, intense, energetic. He knows what he wants, what he likes and he is acutely focused on achieving both as much as he possibly can. As a four-year old, he doesn't yet grasp that his needs and those of others have to be factored into that equation as well. While his parents or other adults may be considering these needs - to Ben they are simply not providing what he wants and likes, at that moment.

He is well aware of the word "patience" and knows its definition. And especially since the arrival of younger brother Matthew almost two years ago, he has learned to practice it - somewhat. I love his response when you ask him to have patience - the sigh, the roll of the eyes, the exasperated "I know." Who doesn't know what that feels like - even if you're decades beyond the age of four?!

Patience is a virtue that allows us to more fully appreciate that which we want and like and even need, but must await. It's an opportunity to live in the moment, mindful of more than just ourselves and our own priorities.

And how wonderful it is when we can fully enjoy ourselves once the patient part is over. Right Ben?!