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Be patient. This is the primary lesson I have learnt in my life. I have had to relearn it repeatedly.

Patience for companionship. I was twenty-four when I met my beloved. We were introduced by mutual friends. We were married within four months. My family protested that we were rushing it (we were), but for me it was something we had to do, for it was the answer to a prayer. Up until then there were just the teenage crushes, followed by the friendships of mutual respect. Though hard at times, I was patient, and that patience was rewarded.

Patience for sound employment. I spent a very long time finding my feet, finding meaningful work. I felt like a failure for many years, so completely ashamed of bringing such a meagre income home. It took me years to get into work I actually enjoyed. Years to find work that I felt suited me. Though hard at times, I was patient, and that patience was rewarded.

Patience for family. We struggled. It was hard. Emotionally draining. Soul crushing. Extremely difficult. But we were patient, and that patience was rewarded.

Patience for inner content. I’ve had a lifetime of self-loathing. Years without self-esteem. Only recently have I found myself capable of accepting myself the way I am. I can finally look at myself in the mirror, no longer embarrassed. I no longer find myself ugly. I am almost ready to embrace myself, just the way I am, and finally come out of hiding. I was patient, and that patience was rewarded.

Be patient. Your patience will be rewarded.