The practice of non-intentional meditation reveals the essence of patience, as one practices dwelling in the present
moment, without pushing for a specific outcome, and giving more attention to the present, and less importance to the worries of the past or the expectations of the
future.
The etymology of the term “patience” traces back to its Latin roots. The word “patientia” meant
“suffering” or “endurance.” This clarifies the original meaning of patience as the ability to
endure difficulties or suffering without complaining or lamenting. However, over time, the understanding of patience has evolved to encompass a broader range of qualities, such as perseverance,
serenity, and calm.
In philosophy, patience is often regarded as a virtue that enables one to overcome challenges with inner strength and balance.
Patience is therefore more than merely persistently waiting for a future event – it describes
rather the ability to accept the present in its unadulterated form.
The German philosopher Novalis expressed it with the following words: “True patience testifies to
great elasticity.” Novalis suggests that the immediacy of present events cannot be
controlled or foreseen. Through pure being in non-intentional meditation, one practices encountering these
unforeseeable moments with openness. Meditation trains inner flexibility, as one
consciously ceases active doing and sits with everything that is and comes. A patient being-with-oneself,
in which one greets every moment with serenity and acceptance.
Non-intentional meditation teaches the art of “suchness” – the ability to simply be, without doing or achieving anything. In the leisure for simplicity, one finds a space of silence and inner peace that
allows one to cultivate patience and accept the flow of life without resistance.
