Definition of Patience and Love
One of my new year’s resolutions was to become more patient so that I could enjoy more of what was around me and to treat others with the respect that they deserve. I have been working on this pretty hard. Most times when I am faced with a situation that would cause me to get upset and possibly lose my temper I think about my goal and try to stay calm. Some times it has worked. As well as I think I am doing I discovered one day in April that I may never reach my ultimate goal.
While shopping at QFC on Holy Thursday, God presented me with the true definition of patience and love. My wife was down in California and I was at the store to buy a few things for dinner. My usual is a small piece of fish or meat to grill, some vegetables and noodles. While I was waiting in line for the lady behind the prepared foods counter to notice me ( I must admit I was in a hurry and wishing I could get my food so I could get home to feed the dogs) I noticed a woman who was starring at me. It bothered me a little because she was looking right at me. She was probably in her mid-70’s and dressed very well (kind of like how my wife dresses when she goes shopping). I turned away for a second and then looked back. Something wasn’t right. She was starring at me, but I don’t think she saw me. Then it dawned on me that she was blind. She was standing very tall and holding on to the cart but not looking around. Her husband was behind her talking with the lady behind the counter. After a few more minutes I notice that the husband put his hand on her shoulder. This small little gesture probably assured his wife that he was still there and that they would be moving shortly.
After they received their prepared foods the husband took up his position next to her and they slowly walked down the aisle. Because she couldn’t see, she kind of shuffled. As I watched the two of them make their way through the crowd I was mesmerized. I couldn’t take my eyes off them. In that moment I think God showed me what it meant to be patient and totally in love with someone. I imagined that the man helped his wife get dressed so that she could go shopping with him. I also imagined that he was totally devoted to her every needs. They were a beautiful couple.
As they turned the corner I took a moment and asked God to give me the grace to be as good a husband and father as that man is.
It is amazing how God sends us messages to help us become more like Him.