Perseverance

Almost all great achievements have come to fruition due to diligence and perseverance. For example, learning to play a musical instrument can be fun, but not at first. Once I get to the point where it starts sounding like I want it to sound, it gets easier to practice, even enjoyable. Before that point, it takes mental discipline, persistence, and patience. It is an active patience that is needed during the practice hours, where I painfully endure discordant notes, knowing that someday it will pay off. However, I set out believing that I can make beautiful music; I refuse to give up.

We live in a fast-paced world that seeks and expects instant gratification. As technology advances the expectations are sometimes met with little consideration for the months of tedious development and testing required to bring us those desired results. More obvious rewards can be seen in the world of competitive sports. To be successful requires time to train and practice until the skills are easily executable. Any worthwhile pursuit requires practice, practice, and more practice. There might come a time when I will think about giving up, but what I want most keeps me going.