Patience: Virtue of November
The Power of Learning Virtues
At HongDe Elementary, our virtue of the month is Patience. Teaching this virtue means guiding students to wait peacefully, with quiet hope and trust that things will unfold in the right way and time. Whether waiting in line, taking turns, or holding out for something they want, learning patience encourages our students to approach life’s challenges calmly and with resilience.
Why Patience Is a Virtue
The phrase “patience is a virtue” means that being able to wait without frustration is an admirable and valuable character trait. The importance of this virtue is emphasized in cultures worldwide, encouraging delayed gratification, an essential life skill that fosters mindfulness and self-control.
Historically, the idea of patience as a virtue has roots in ancient proverbs and moral teachings. From the writings in Distichs of Cato in the 2nd century, which declared, “Of human virtues, patience is most great,” to Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, patience has long been upheld as a cornerstone of ethical character.
Practicing Patience in the Classroom
At HongDe, we integrate virtues into our everyday activities, helping students practice this skill through structured exercises and spontaneous moments throughout the day. From waiting their turn during discussions to observing nature during outdoor time, we guide students to embrace patience as part of their personal growth. It builds their inner strength and helps them develop empathy, as they understand the value of waiting and respecting others’ time.
Book of the Month: Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse
Our Book of the Month, Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes, beautifully illustrates the challenges and rewards of practicing patience. Lilly, an enthusiastic young mouse, loves her purple purse so much that she can’t wait to show it off—even if it means interrupting her class. Through Lilly’s journey, students see how patience is not always easy but how waiting and making thoughtful choices can lead to positive outcomes.
With this story, our students get to see patience in action, learning that sometimes the best things come when we wait. We encourage parents to read this book with their children and explore ways they can practice the virtue together at home.
Benefits of Learning Patience
Learning patience helps children in many ways:
– Improved Focus
Patience helps kids focus on the present without rushing, allowing for deeper learning and retention.
– Enhanced Social Skills
Waiting their turn and listening to others builds empathy and strengthens friendships.
– Increased Resilience
Patience enables children to handle frustration calmly and adapt to change with a positive attitude.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Understanding Patience
The phrase means that being able to wait without frustration is a valuable and admirable trait.
The saying originated from the proverb, “Of human virtues, patience is most great,” which has appeared in many forms across literature and cultures.
The idea dates back to ancient texts, with a notable reference in the Distichs of Cato in the 2nd or 3rd century. Geoffrey Chaucer later popularized it in The Canterbury Tales, saying, “Patience is a high vertu.”
This month, let’s all take a moment to nurture patience together! Encourage your child to identify moments when they can practice waiting calmly, whether it’s during family meals, playdates, or even while sharing their favorite stories. Small acts of patience create a foundation for self-control, empathy, and a balanced outlook on life.
At HongDe, we’re proud to support our students on this journey, helping them grow into patient, thoughtful individuals ready to make positive choices in a busy world.
