Kyrie’ Deslatte
Of Patience

“The Scripture exhorteth us to possess our souls in patience. Whosoever is out of patience, is out of possession of his soul.” –Bacon

Patience is the key to a contented and prosperous life. Patience acts to strengthen personality towards others whom are not so enduring; it allows moments for contemplative thought before hurtful phrases pour from our mouths like a hose with no spicket; therefore, it acts as a barrier between impulse and reserve. Patience is uncommon, but when found, it should be used commonly. Most lack this serenity until an elderly age, when it is too late for redemption for acts committed when in lack of patience. The opposite of patience, that is anger, can unfortunately be found in a higher proportion of people. Bravery is required for those who wish to extinguish anger entirely. Shyness seems to accompany patience, while extroverted behavior is known to associate itself with intolerance. Though, ironically, the outspoken should have more tolerance while the shy could have more eagerness.

Those who have patience are sure to enter through the pearly gates. Fortitude allows for a cleansing of the soul. Anger taints the soul, and redemption is difficult to attain once anger has overtaken the mouth. Patience does not have the power to forgive anger, but it can allow for future fits to be prevented. Patience is like breathing; while breathing is necessary to the body, patience is necessary for the soul.

Patience is like the diamond in the rock, a search for years could never find it; although, if found, it is a precious treasure. Authority who contains patience will be successful, but authority that lacks patience may be successful, but will be unpopular. Patience can be found in teachers, parents, and holy officials. Though, too much patience leads to lenience. This occurs with a teacher who allows patience to overtake them with an unruly student, causing the student to disrupt and overtake the classroom; parents setting a lax environment could cause a child to slack in necessary work; holy officials without a strict law code in their religion could discover nonchalant praising and breaking of important standards. Along with authority, women possess more patience than men. Whether it is due to the maternal instinct of women, their patience is noticed when they interact with their children. Men are less patient; they are more frequent in their intolerance of children, co-workers, and family. Patience is difficult to maintain and without practice or prayer, can transform itself into contempt or a form of anger.