若い世代にとって、現代社会は生きやすいとは言い難く、生きづらさが増している。これは社会規範の変化によるものだと考えられる。さらに、過去の名言や格言を振り返ると、長い時間と努力を続ければ必ず成功が訪れることが示されている。言わば「石の上にも三年」のように、忍耐と努力の価値を再確認することが重要であり、この言葉は人生のあらゆる段階で意味を持つ。高齢者であっても、新たな挑戦や成功への道を切り拓くことは可能だ。
When asked whether the world is an easy place to live for the Serai generation, I don’t think anyone could confidently say “yes, it’s an easy place to live.” On the contrary, it seems that the difficulty of living is gradually increasing. One of the reasons for this is the changing social norms.
Perhaps it’s because the “common sense” we’ve acquired through the guidance of our parents, elders, and teachers has changed significantly? In other words, it seems like the “survival skills” we’ve learned in society are no longer functioning as effectively.
However, what we perceive as significant changes now may turn out to be incredibly minor changes when viewed over 100 or 200 years. I believe this is evidenced by the quotes and sayings of our predecessors that continue to influence people today.
The motto for the 4th week is “Patience is a virtue.”
Meaning of “Patience is a virtue”
Origin of “Patience is a virtue”
Benefits of incorporating “Patience is a virtue” into your speeches
Finally
Meaning of “Patience is a virtue”
The “Patience is a virtue” saying, according to the Shogakukan Digital Daijisen, means “even sitting on a cold stone for three years will warm it up.” If you persevere patiently and persistently, you will definitely achieve your goals. It is explained as a “metaphor.” The “three years” mentioned here is not literal years but a metaphor for a “long period.”
This proverb conveys a message of hope that no matter how harsh the environment or situation is, persistence and effort will lead to success and fruitful outcomes. It shows that the importance of perseverance is rewarded over time, especially for older individuals who find value in new learning and challenges throughout their lives.
Similar sayings with the same meaning include “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” and “Drops of water carve stone.” These sayings emphasize the importance of continuous effort and are used to encourage and commend people’s achievements.
Origin of “Patience is a virtue”
Although the origin of this saying is unclear, there is an anecdote related to Bodhidharma.
Bodhidharma is considered the founder of Chinese Chan Buddhism. He is said to have come from India to China about 1,500 years ago and is known for his strict training and Zen teachings. One of the most famous anecdotes is that Bodhidharma meditated in front of a wall for nine years. This anecdote symbolizes Bodhidharma’s firm determination and spiritual focus, which aligns with the values of patience and perseverance conveyed in the saying “Patience is a virtue.”
Benefits of incorporating “Patience is a virtue” into your speeches
The motto “Patience is a virtue” signifies a commitment to oneself. By quoting this phrase in speeches or conversations, you can convey the power of patience to others and foster empathy and motivation. Here are three speech examples incorporating the concept of “Patience is a virtue.”
1: Speech example on the challenges of being an entrepreneur
“When I started my business, sales were minimal, and debts kept piling up. At that time, I remembered the words my grandfather often said, ‘Patience is a virtue.’ Despite having nothing and overcoming many difficulties, I believed in those words. As a result of not giving up and continuing the business, my efforts were recognized, and sales skyrocketed. I truly felt the profound meaning of ‘Patience is a virtue.’ I still live by this motto.”
2: Speech example on running a marathon
“When I attempted my first full marathon, I lacked confidence in finishing it. Even after a month of training, I was plagued by knee pain and uncertainty… The phrase ‘Patience is a virtue’ supported me throughout. I persevered with my training, and finally, I completed the full marathon the other day. This experience reaffirmed the value of patience for me. It was worth it.”
3: Speech example on language learning
“When I decided to study abroad, I struggled to speak English for the first few months, constantly hitting a language barrier and feeling lonely and frustrated. With that phrase in my heart, I persevered. With time passing, I gradually understood the language, and now I can speak fluently. I want to move abroad to enjoy speaking English.”
Finally
Even for older individuals in the later stages of life, it is worth trying out. The saying “Patience is a virtue” teaches us the importance of continuing to work towards something without giving up. By keeping this motto in mind in our lives and incorporating the values of patience and perseverance into our daily lives, new paths to success will be opened.
●Written by / Sayuri Takeda
A licensed career consultant. Junior high and high school Japanese teacher, school librarian teacher. While working as a teacher, she also promotes vocational education for children to live their lives authentically. My hobbies are tennis and reading.
●Composition / Kyoto Media Line –