Perseverance

Adhering to a course of action, a belief, or a purpose, especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement

When we persevere, we:

• Do our best with what we have.
• Keep trying; we don't quit or give up easily.
• Never make excuses for obstacles that get in the way of getting something done. Instead we look for ways to remove or work around the obstacles.

There is a poem on the Bible.org Web site titled "The Race." This poem exemplifies perseverance. The last few lines of the poem read:

For all of life is like a race, with ups and downs and all.
And all you have to do to win is rise each time you fall.
"Quit!" "Give up, you're beaten!" They still shout in my face.
But another voice within me says,"GET UP AND WIN THE RACE!"

Spend some time with your child explaining the importance of "staying the course" and doing the best you can. And, read "The Race" together. You will be glad you did.

To Do

1. Go over the Perseverance (pdf) poster together and put it on the refrigerator.
2. Read the story, Look Who Persevered!, with your child and discuss the questions at the end.
3. Do the activity (to reinforce the perseverance character trait.

Materials

• Poster (pdf)
• Story
• Activity