There is great power in patience because it cuts through arrogance and
ingratitude. It is the path that lets us move from resistance to acceptance
and spontaneous presence. Holding on to our judgments about others and
ourselves is a major cause of impatience. Repeating softly to ourselves,
“May I be happy just as I am” and “May I be peaceful with whatever is
happening” helps us accept our vulnerabilities, imperfections, and losses:
everything from chronic physical and emotional pain, to the death of loved
ones, the end of a job or relationship—even nightmare traffic jams.
– Michele McDonald, “Finding Patience,” Tricycle Summer 2004