Life moves fast, especially when we’re juggling work, life, and all the demands that come with modern living. For most of my life, I’ve prided myself on efficiency, on getting things done, on moving forward. But sometimes, moving fast means missing a lot – and occasionally, stumbling. It took a wise, new friend in my hometown of Lima, Peru, to gently guide me toward a forgotten virtue: patience.
We were staying at our newly purchased apartment in Lima when I met her, at the HOA meeting. She was a neighbor, a woman whose eyes held a depth that spoke of many seasons lived, and much wisdom gathered. What started as a polite “I want to be your friend” at the apartment parking garage quickly blossomed into a deep, meaningful friendship.
Our ritual was simple: a 4-kilometer walk around “El Pentagonito” near our apartment building. The path was familiar, but the journey took a new meaning with her by my side. As we walked, she wouldn’t just chat about the weather or local gossip. Instead, she’d talk about patience. The conversation would then continue unhurriedly over a warm cup of tea or coffee at the corner shop.
The Practice of Waiting, and Listening
She wasn’t just talking at me; she was teaching me how to practice it. She’d share insights into what to do when impatience bubbled up, how to consciously slow down, and the profound peace that comes with allowing things to unfold. But what truly set her apart was her incredible ability to listen.
During those walks, I found myself opening up, sharing my own struggles with impatience. I recounted periods when my inability to wait, to pause, to breathe, had led to hasty decisions, frustrated outbursts, and, inevitably, hurt – both for myself and for those around me. There were moments when my lack of patience had soured relationships, pushed opportunities away, or simply left me feeling perpetually stressed and dissatisfied.
She listened without judgment, her presence a calming balm. She understood that sometimes, the greatest act of patience is simply allowing yourself to feel and process without rushing to fix or discard. She’d gently reflect my experiences, offering a perspective that transformed my moments of regret into powerful lessons. How truly wise she was.
A Long-Distance Legacy of Calm
Now, miles separate us. She’s navigating the vibrant chaos of New York City, while I’m finding my rhythm in Austin. Our busy lives mean those long, meaningful walks are a cherished memory, and phone calls are far less frequent than we’d both like.
But when our schedules align, and we finally connect, it’s as if no time has passed. Her voice is still a reservoir of calm, her advice as sharp and comforting as ever. Just a few minutes with her reminds me to re-center, to breathe, and to remember the quiet power of patience she so generously shared.
That friend taught me that patience isn’t just about waiting; it’s about active waiting, doing the work while you wait. It’s the deep understanding that some things simply take time, and the best answers often show up when you stop rushing and just observe. It’s about being present, trusting the process, and recognizing that true strength often lies in quiet fortitude.
Her wisdom continues to guide me, a gentle whisper from Lima to Austin, reminding me to embrace the unhurried rhythm of life. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
Maria Noack
Written October 12, 2025
