I think it can be rather easy to react in anger or sadness. I find that such reaction most often then not lead to negative consequences though. I have found that a positive path, a path guided by patience can actually turn a seemingly difficult or distasteful situation into a favorable one. Patience gives these feelings a chance to be as they will be for however long that they will last. With patience we have compassion for them for we understand them all to well and empathize. With honesty about the situation we understand that reacting to them will only increase, exacerbate, and likely lead to negative consequences. As we allow gratitude to blossom within, we appreciate the greatness of such a lesson and enjoy the relief that comes after such an emotion moves on from our consciousness.
How many times has this played out in our lives, with either positive or negative result? We might be able to hold on to patience, or we might become stuck to the negative emotion, and let it pull us along to wherever it wants to go. I prefer the result of enjoyment that comes with relief and accomplishment when I simply allow it to pass rather than the speeding ticket, the fist fight, the dinner in silence, the possibility of loosing my job, etc. I do not know exactly where your negative emotions have taken you, but, I bet, like in my situations, it might not be as pleasant as waiting them out, and treating them with compassion, honesty, and gratitude, much like a fussing child till they settle back down. Let's move into a mindful gratitude practice in an effort to become more aware of when this is happening, and how we might deal with it.
Mindful Gratitude Practice in Patience
When we feel anger, frustration, sadness, regret, or any other negative emotion, let us take a breath and step back form the sensation of it within our mental space. Making some breathing room can help us see the emotion for what it is, a response to some event or stimuli. That emotion is not who we are, it may be a part, but there is so much more. Being grateful for the experience of it, but addressing it with the honesty of what would likely happen if we continued to feed it, and compassionate understanding of “yeah that is ok, it is only natural to feel that way,” can set us up for enjoying the experience as it passes by because we are supporting its transition into a better state as it passes away to be reborn into a positive emotion. I think of it as being a loving parent versus a partner in crime within my own mental experience. I invite you to try this out in your own life whether it be a dispute with another, or a feeling that arises when you are by yourself.
Thank you for joining me today, my friend, on this journey into patience! I hope that you were able to take away something very helpful for yourself! I know that I have benefited greatly from the experience of writing this! Thank you for providing me with that opportunity! May God, Life, and Love bless you and keep you this day and always! Praying and hoping for greater patience, love, and happiness in all our lives! From Aaron :-)