Each newsletter we will be sharing a virtue that will be the focus in our school over the following three weeks.  

What is Perseverance? Perseverance is being purposeful and steadfast.  It is sticking to something, staying committed, no matter how long it takes or what obstacles appear to stop you.  A good example is the story of the tortoise and the hare.  Even though the tortoise was slower than the hare, he won the race because he persevered - he didn't let anything stop him or distract him.  He kept on going.

Why Practice it? Without perseverance, people give up on things easily.  They don't keep their promises.  When we persevere, people can depend on us to finish what we start and to keep our commitments.  When we persevere, we stay friends even when the friendship is tested.  We don't give up until a problem is solved.

How do you practice it? You practice perseverence by committing to someone or something.  Choose your commitments wisely and then stick with them.  When you commit to a task, pace yourself, and be persistent, doing it step-by-step.  Stand by your friends even when they aren't much fun, or are having a hard time.  When trouble or doubts come up, be like a strong ship in a storm.  Don't let yourself become battered or blown off course.  Just ride the waves.

Signs of Success Congratulations!  You are practicing Perseverance when you...

• Think before deciding to commit to someone or something.
• Pace yourself.
• Set goals and stick with them until they are complete.
• Take one step at a time, remaining steady.
• Don't let doubts or tests blow you off course.
• Stand by your friends and loved ones.

"Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence.  Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent... Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent'."  Anonymous