I'll be the first to admit that all throughout my childhood (and much of my adulthood), the concept and the reality of patience didn't come naturally to me. My mother, in her thick Italian accent, would marvel at me in my most frustrated moments and say, "You ... have ... no ... patience". In my dramatic teenage years, I would think I was being so clever when I would loudly and proudly retort to anyone who said, "Patience is a virtue", with my own maxim, "Patience is a curse - it's what they tell you to have when you can't have what you want." In some ways it is a clever turn of phrase, but it misses the point. Patience is not a salve for the pain of waiting, patience is the fuel for achieving.
A few years ago, I saw an inspiring video by Les Brown, about the story of The Chinese Bamboo Tree, and it resonated deeply with me. This inspirational story and metaphor, planted a seed deep in my soul that I'm still working on, still taking care of, still nurturing and watering, and still giving oxygen and sunlight; all with the goal to ensure this lesson continues to grow to its fullest expression in me. As I age, hopefully mature, and gain more cumulative experience in my work and profession, I am continually cultivating patience; and it is fuels the continual improvement of my work. So I would like to pay tribute and share this story here.
Introduction
In the bustling world we live in, where instant gratification often takes precedence over saving and planning, and discarding and replacing cheaply made goods is opted over the time and expense of higher quality goods, it's easy to forget the value of patience and hard work. Yet, there's a remarkable tree that teaches us these invaluable lessons in the most profound way—the Chinese Bamboo tree. Despite its unassuming appearance, the journey of the Chinese Bamboo tree is a testament to the power of patience, perseverance, and faith in the process of growth.
The Growth Process of the Chinese Bamboo Tree
The story of the Chinese Bamboo tree, like many plants and trees, begins with a seed planted in the ground. Unlike most trees, this remarkable species doesn't reveal any visible signs of growth for the first several years. In fact, for five long years, it requires constant and consistent care and nurturing, yielding absolutely no visible results above ground. Think about that. Years of watering, cultivating, providing oxygen and sunlight as you pore over an area of the ground, and you seemingly have zero results to show for it.
It would be so easy and understandable to begin to doubt the process, doubt yourself, doubt the seed, and quit on the whole thing. No one would blame you; I mean you would appear to be quitting on something that doesn't appear to be there. However, what we can't see for four years of staring at the same patch of ground, is what's going on below. Beneath the surface, an intricate network of roots is spreading and strengthening, laying the foundation for future growth.
The Importance of Patience
Patience is often described as a virtue, and the Chinese Bamboo tree beautifully exemplifies this. Just as the tree requires years of patient nurturing before it shoots up, so too do our dreams and aspirations require time to take root and flourish.
"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
By embracing the rhythm of nature and allowing things to unfold in their own time, we can cultivate a deeper sense of peace and contentment in our lives.
The Role of Hard Work
While patience is essential, it's equally important to pair it with diligent effort and hard work. The care and attention given to the Chinese Bamboo tree during its formative years symbolize the effort we must invest in our own growth and development.
"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." - Thomas Edison
Every drop of sweat and every moment of dedication contributes to the eventual breakthroughs and successes we experience.
Overcoming Challenges
No journey toward growth is without its challenges. The Chinese Bamboo tree faces its fair share of adversity, from unpredictable weather conditions to potential pests and diseases. Yet, despite these obstacles, it remains resilient, drawing strength from its deep roots and unwavering determination.
"Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm."
- Winston Churchill
In our own lives, too, we encounter setbacks and hardships that test our resolve. It's during these moments that our commitment to our goals is truly put to the test, and it's through perseverance that we emerge stronger and more resilient than before.
The Reward of Patience and Hard Work
After five years of patient nurturing, something remarkable happens—the Chinese Bamboo tree suddenly shoots up, growing an astonishing 80 feet or more in just six weeks! This rapid growth spurt is a vivid reminder that the rewards of patience and hard work may not always come when we expect them, but they are well worth the wait. Just as the Chinese Bamboo tree's growth defies logic and expectations, so too can our own potential for growth and transformation exceed our wildest dreams.
Conclusion
In a world that often values speed over substance, the story of the Chinese Bamboo tree serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless virtues of patience and hard work. By embracing these principles in our lives, in our businesses, in our professions, in our families, and in our health, we can cultivate a sense of resilience, perseverance, and faith in the process of growth.
So let us take inspiration from the humble Chinese Bamboo tree and trust that regardless of the difficulties, challenges, and anxieties that we are facing right in our lives right now - that with patience, perseverance, and unwavering dedication, our dreams will one day flourish and reach surprising heights.
Thanks to Les Brown for the great talk. If you haven't seen it, I invite you to watch it.