Persistence is keeping your eye on the prize. It is unwavering belief, combined with action and a
plan that is unstoppable. In this environment you need to stay laser focused and not compromise or
lose your vision, goals and plans for what life will be when you leave. Life has thrown us all curve balls
and it is how we react that sets success apart from failure. In my understanding of what it means to
be persistent there seems to be four simple steps that lead to the habit of persistence. They require no great amount of intelligence, no particular level of education and but little time and effort. The necessary
steps are 1. A definite purpose backed by a burning desire for its fulfillment. 2. A definite plan expressed
in continuance action. 3. A mind closed tightly against all negative and discouraging influences. This
includes negative suggestions of relatives, friends and acquaintances. 4. A friendly alliance with one or
more persons who will encourage you to follow through with both plan and purpose.
This environment has its share of negative people and a few in particular are stand outs.
They complain about everything, I mean everything. I do my best to avoid these people
but the campus is small and I often run into them but try not to engage in conversation.
Persistence is a state of mind so it can be cultivated. A song by Elvis Costello comes to mind:
What’s so funny about Peace, love and understanding? He fights against all negativity and
a line from the songs goes “I ask myself Is there only hate and anger and misery” before asking the
question that is the songs title. It would be easier to complain and be miserable but what does that achieve?
Like all states of mind, persistence is based upon definite causes such as desire, willpower and habit.
The mind absorbs and becomes a part of the daily experiences in which it feeds. This is the most
challenging aspect of my daily routine while here. I have a crystal clear plan for my return and try to surround myself and engage with those who are encouraging and like minded. Taking an early evening walk last night with a few people that hold a similar belief system, one of them said “If I never see 99.9% of these people again it will be to soon.”
I responded I think it is more like 99.5%
