Steadfastness, Perseverance, and Mercy

Photo by Said : https://www.pexels.com/photo/add-with-virtues-15855220/

A little over two years ago my personal meditation instructor/yoga teacher introduced me to virtue reflection cards. They are a set of 100 contemplative cards to help you find intention for your practice of mindfulness for the day when you are struggling to set an intention. She often told me to pick one at random because she felt the right card which you need will often find you. I can be a very analytical, fact based person so I honestly always nodded politely and said "yeah, uh-huh" when she would say that. I mean, it is luck of the draw, right? I fumbled my deck this morning while getting them open and 3 cards fell out. In light of all the changes and chaos we have been seeing in the world the last several years these three cards really struck hard for me this morning. Maybe there is something to what she was telling me all along. Maybe, they were meant not only for me, but for all of you as well.

Steadfastness - Steadfastness is being steady, persevering, and dependable. We remain true to our purpose through whatever happens. Steadfastness grows whenever we rise to a challenge. It bolsters our will to keep going when life tests our resolve. We choose a direction, then keep a steady pace. We are faithful and enduing with those we love. We commit ourselves to something for however long it may take. We are like a strong ship in a storm. We don't allow ourselves to be battered or blown off course. We hold on and ride the waves.

The Practice of Steadfastness - I choose my commitments wisely. I remain true to my purpose. I pace myself. I am faithful in my relationships. I don't allow doubts or tests to blow me off course. I take what comes and persevere. I am thankful for the gift of Steadfastness. It gives me strength to endure.

Perseverance - Perseverance is the will to carry on. Once we discern our true direction, we will stay the course for however long it takes, regardless of the obstacles that arise. When creativity inspires us, we do the work required to bring it to fruition. We patiently pursue our goals, remaining steadfast and focused. We persist with a task until it is completed. People can trust us to finish what we start. When our relationships are tested, we have the commitment to work things through. We are determined to succeed.

The Practice of Perseverance - I have a strong sense of purpose. I have the will to overcome obstacles. I remain committed to what I want to do. I am determined to finish what I start. I am trustworthy in my relationships. I do what it takes to stay the course. I am thankful for the gift of Perseverance. It keeps me going.

Mercy - Mercy is blessing others with our compassion and forgiveness, We are touched by their suffering and want to help. Justice is giving people what they deserve. Mercy is giving them more. We are merciful when we give ourselves and others a fresh chance after an offense or mistake. Nothing inspires hope so much as a clean slate. When we have the humility to remember the countless mercies we receive throughout our life, we find it in our hearts to show mercy to others. We offer the gift of our tenderness.

The Practice of Mercy - I am compassionate and forgiving. My heart is moved by the suffering of others. I overlook mistakes. I give others and myself the chance to start over. I am thankful for the mercies I have been shown. I treat others tenderly. I am thankful for the gift of Mercy. It makes my life a blessing.

Learn more about the Virtue Project

Loka Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu - May all beings everywhere be happy and free

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