Patience In the Heat of the Moment

Today, I was reminded that patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a lifeline.

As we prepared for our Fourth of July weekend trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, I was determined to make this journey special for my 90-year-old mother. At this stage in her life, experiences mean everything. The sparkle in her eyes when she talks about family is reason enough to load the car, map the route, and make the drive.

But let me tell you—before we even hit the road, life decided to test me.

While packing up the car, I was hit with a hot flash like no other. Not just a quick wave of heat, but a burning furnace that ignited from within and had sweat pouring down my back and dripping off my face. My breath shortened. My body screamed for relief. In that sweltering moment, I felt like I couldn’t go on.

Then—just as clearly as if He were standing beside me—I heard the Father whisper:

“Patience.”

One word. But it grounded me.

That word carried me through traffic delays, snack spills, repeated questions from the back seat, and unexpected detours over the four-and-a-half-hour drive. Each time I felt my nerves fray or frustration rise, I reached for that still voice: Patience.

And it changed everything.

Because when I shifted my posture from pressure to presence, I found peace. I found joy in my mother’s stories. I found laughter in our off-key car karaoke. I found gratitude that, even through sweat and short tempers, we were making memories.

This weekend isn’t just a trip. It’s a gift.

And sometimes, all it takes to open that gift… is a little patience.