Serenity

Serenity

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Serenity is tranquility of spirit. It is an abiding sense of trust and faith that all is well. In the midst of trials, we are accepting and resilient. We go with the flow. We practice stillness, reflection, and mindfulness. Serenity gives us lucidity of thought and allows us to detach from strong emotions that can cloud our judgment. We do not allow worry or fear to throw us off balance. We cultivate peaceful presence. We are able to be the calm in the wind.

Quote

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.”

— Reinhart Niebuhr

 The Practice of Serenity

  • I have faith in the goodness of life.
  • I accept tests with grace and trust.
  • I am flexible in the course of events.
  • I am thoughtful and reflective.
  • I keep my peace.
  • In the midst of chaos I create tranquility.
Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™.

In Family Life

In the realm of family life, the virtue of serenity manifests as a collective sense of tranquility and trust. It is when family members embrace an unwavering faith that, no matter the challenges they face, all will ultimately be well. In times of trials and tribulations, serenity is demonstrated through acceptance and resilience, as the family gracefully adapts to the ebb and flow of life’s uncertainties.

Within the family unit, stillness, reflection, and mindfulness are not just practices; they become a way of life. Serenity bestows upon each member the clarity of thought needed to navigate difficult situations, enabling them to detach from overpowering emotions that may obscure their judgment. It is a shield against the disruptive forces of worry and fear, allowing the family to maintain its balance.

Cultivating a peaceful presence collectively, they become the calm amidst life’s storms, radiating serenity as a guiding light for one another.

Balancing Serenity

To maintain a healthy balance of serenity, several other virtues can be of great assistance:

      • Courage: Courage allows us to confront challenges and conflicts with a clear mind while still staying serene. It helps us act when needed rather than passively accepting unfavorable situations.
      • Wisdom: Wisdom enables us to discern when it’s appropriate to be serene and when action is required. It guides us in making informed decisions, free from excessive emotional influence.
      • Compassion: Compassion reminds us that serenity doesn’t mean indifference. It encourages us to maintain empathy and care for others while staying calm, even in difficult circumstances.
      • Resilience: Resilience complements serenity by helping us bounce back from adversity. It ensures that the storms of life do not shatter serenity but rather remain a steady force.

In pursuing serenity, let us remember that, like all virtues, it thrives in balance. It’s not about being emotionless or constantly in turmoil; it’s about finding the equilibrium that allows us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and peace. So, let serenity be your anchor, but let courage, wisdom, compassion, and resilience be your guiding stars in maintaining that cherished balance.

 

Serenity

Self-Discipline

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Self-discipline is having the self control to do only what we truly choose to do, rather than being blown about in the winds of our desires. Self-discipline gives us the will to persevere. It helps us to meet our goals, to be productive instead of procrastinating. It keeps us from saying or doing things we regret. We are vigilant and honest with ourselves, which frees us to live by our highest values. We are able to weed out bad habits and cultivate good ones. Self-mastery is fulfilling to our souls.

Quote

“Those who make channels for water control the waters; makers of arrows make the arrows straight; carpenters control their timber; and the holy control their souls.”

— The Dhammapada 10, Buddhism

 The Practice of Self-Discipline

  • I have the self-control to make wise choices.
  • I resist distractions.
  • I persevere in meeting my goals.
  • I get things done.
  • I have the strength to be tactful.
  • I carefully cultivate my character.
Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™.

In Family Life

The virtue of self-discipline within a family is akin to the steady hand that guides a ship through turbulent waters. It manifests itself in the actions and attitudes of each family member, serving as a beacon of order and responsibility. Self-discipline in a family is demonstrated through the commitment to fulfill one’s obligations and responsibilities, whether regarding chores, homework, or simply punctuality and reliability.

It means resisting the allure of immediate gratification in favor of long-term goals and the well-being of the family unit. Self-discipline is a cornerstone of harmonious family dynamics, fostering an environment where trust and mutual respect flourish, ultimately nurturing the bonds that hold a family together.

Balancing Self-Discipline

Self-discipline is a valuable virtue that can lead to personal growth and fulfillment when balanced appropriately. To maintain a healthy balance of self-discipline, consider these virtues:

  • Moderation: Practicing moderation helps prevent overdeveloped self-discipline. It encourages flexibility and the ability to enjoy life’s pleasures without becoming enslaved by strict rules. Moderation allows for occasional indulgences while still pursuing long-term goals.
  • Compassion: Balancing self-discipline requires self-compassion. It’s essential to treat oneself with kindness and understanding, acknowledging that everyone has limitations and occasional lapses in discipline. Compassion allows for self-forgiveness and resilience in the face of setbacks.
  • Courage: Courage is necessary to develop self-discipline when it’s underdeveloped. It takes courage to confront weaknesses, make changes, and set and commit to goals. It also helps individuals stand up to their desires when they conflict with their values.
  • Wisdom: Wisdom helps individuals discern when to apply self-discipline and when to let go. It guides decision-making by considering long-term consequences and recognizing when strict discipline may be counterproductive.
  • Gratitude: Practicing gratitude can help individuals appreciate the benefits of self-discipline without taking it to extremes. It fosters contentment with what one has achieved and reduces the need for excessive discipline driven by unquenchable desires.

Using these virtues to balance self-discipline can ensure that it remains a positive force in your life, guiding you toward your goals without losing sight of your well-being and the joys of life’s journey.

Serenity

Righteousness

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Righteousness is living by a code of moral rectitude. It is practicing impeccable integrity in light of what we know is right. We don’t allow the fads of the day to sway us from doing the right thing. Nor do we stand in judgment of others. Righteousness is one thing. Self-righteousness is another. We don’t shame ourselves when we go off track. We discern the lesson in the teachable moment and gently call ourselves back to the virtues. We resist being driven by our egos. We choose to be led by our souls. We live the good life.

Quote

“Moral excellence comes about as a result of habit. We become just by doing just acts, temperate by doing temperate acts, brave by doing brave acts.”

— Aristotle

 The Practice of Righteousness

  • I live by my deepest values.
  • I don’t allow the ways of the world to control me.
  • I don’t judge myself or others.
  • I accept accountability and learn from my mistakes.
  • I resist the insistent demands of my ego.
  • I choose to live a soulful life.
Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™.

In Family Life

The virtue of righteousness in a family shines through as a steadfast commitment to moral and ethical principles, serving as the cornerstone of harmonious relationships. It is demonstrated through a collective dedication to honesty, fairness, and empathy within the family unit. Each member upholds their responsibilities with integrity and treats one another respectfully and kindly.

In times of conflict, righteousness prevails as family members engage in open and compassionate communication, seeking resolutions that consider the greater good of the family as a whole. This virtue fosters an environment where trust is nurtured, bonds are strengthened, and love flows freely, creating a sanctuary of support and understanding for each member to flourish.

Balancing Righteousness

To keep the virtue of righteousness in balance, several other virtues can play a crucial role:

      • Humility: Humility reminds us that we are not infallible, and it helps counter self-righteousness by encouraging empathy and understanding towards others. It encourages us to admit our mistakes and learn from our mistakes.
      • Compassion: Compassion softens the edges of righteousness and prevents us from being overly judgmental. It reminds us to approach others respectfully, recognizing that everyone has struggles and flaws.
      • Wisdom: Wisdom helps us navigate the complexities of moral dilemmas and teaches us when to stand firm in our principles and when to be flexible. It allows us to make informed and balanced ethical decisions.
      • Courage: Courage reinforces our commitment to righteousness, enabling us to stay true to our moral code despite adversity or societal pressure.
      • Prudence: Prudence encourages thoughtful and measured actions, preventing us from becoming too rigid or fanatical in our pursuit of righteousness. It guides us in discerning when to act and exercise patience and understanding.

Balancing it with these virtues allows us to live righteous lives while maintaining our moral integrity and harmony with others. In this balance, the true essence of righteousness shines brightest, guiding us to lead lives of virtue and goodness.

Serenity

Reverence

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Reverence is living with an awareness that we are always in the presence of the Creator and that all life is precious. When we practice reverence, we open ourselves to experience faith, love, and deep respect for the mysteries and wonders of life. We take time in solitude and silence each day to contemplate, to pray and reflect. We seek to discern the deeper meaning of our lives. The beauty of nature restores our souls. We are respectful stewards of the earth. We treasure all life.

Quote

“Affirmation of life is the spiritual act by which a man ceases to live unreflectively and begins to devote himself to his life with reverence, in order to raise it to its true value.”

— Albert Schweitzer

 The Practice of Reverence

  • I take time each day to nurture my inner life.
  • I open my soul to life’s wonders.
  • I live with an awareness of Divine presence.
  • I discern the meaning of my experiences.
  • I allow beauty to nurture my soul.
  • I respect the value of all life.
Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™. 

In Family Life

The virtue of reverence within a family is a profound expression of respect, gratitude, and admiration. It is demonstrated through the deep appreciation for each family member’s unique qualities and contributions, fostering an environment of love and support. Reverence can be seen in how family members actively listen to one another, valuing their perspectives and feelings. It manifests in gestures of kindness and empathy during challenging times, reminding us to be patient and forgiving.

Reverence in a family encourages the celebration of traditions, the acknowledgment of shared history, and the creation of cherished memories. Ultimately, it is the foundation upon which enduring bonds are built, and it flourishes when we honor the inherent worth of each member, creating a harmonious and uplifting family dynamic.

Family members unite to practice reverence by setting aside time for contemplation, prayer, and reflection, fostering a spiritual connection that binds them. They seek to understand the profound meaning of their lives and encourage one another in their spiritual journeys.

Balancing Reverence

To maintain a harmonious and balanced expression of reverence, several other virtues come into play:

      • Wisdom: Wisdom helps us discern when to seek solitude and reflection and when to engage actively in the world. It guides us in making thoughtful decisions that honor the sacred while addressing practical needs.
      • Courage: Courage enables us to take necessary actions, even when they require us to confront difficult choices or make sacrifices for the greater good.
      • Gratitude: Gratitude reminds us to appreciate the beauty and wonder in our lives, fostering a deeper reverence for the world around us.
      • Responsibility: Responsibility encourages us to be diligent stewards of the Earth, ensuring that our actions align with our reverence for all life.
      • Humility: Humility keeps us grounded, reminding us that we are part of a greater whole and encouraging a respectful approach to the mysteries of existence.

Finding equilibrium allows us to experience the richness of reverence while remaining connected to the practicalities of life and our responsibilities to the world around us.

 

Serenity

Responsibility

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Responsibility is the willingness to be accountable for our choices. Others can depend on us to do what we say we will do and to give our best effort. We take on what is ours to do with commitment and reliability. It is important to discern what responsibility belongs to us, and what belongs to others. Taking on another’s spiritual work deprives us both. When we make mistakes, we have the courage to change for the better. We make amends instead of excuses. We have the ability to respond ably.

Quote

“My life is an influence on every life mine touches. Whether I realize it or not, I am responsible and accountable for that influence.” 

— Ron Baron

 

“The moment you take responsibility for everything in your life is the moment you can change anything in your life.”  — Hal Elrod

 

“Mistakes are always forgivable if one has the courage to admit them.” – Bruce Lee

 The Practice of Responsibility

  • I am accountable for what I do.
  • Others can rely on me.
  • I keep my agreements.
  • I give excellence to all that I do.
  • I focus on my part, not someone else’s.
  • I make amends for my mistakes.

Definitions and practices of virtue are used with permission from the Virtues Project™. 

Responsibility is the quality of being accountable for one’s actions, decisions, and obligations. It involves recognizing and accepting the consequences of one’s choices and actions and owning them.

Being responsible is important because it leads to a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment. When we take responsibility for our lives, we control our destiny and have the power to shape our future. We become more reliable and trustworthy, which can enhance our personal and professional relationships.

Responsibility also contributes to the stability and success of society as a whole. When individuals take responsibility for their actions and obligations, they fulfill their roles as community members and contribute to the common good. Conversely, neglecting responsibility can negatively affect individuals and society, such as loss of trust, respect, and opportunities.

In addition, being responsible helps to build self-discipline, time management skills, and a strong work ethic. It also cultivates a sense of integrity and honor as we become more aware of the impact of our actions on ourselves and others.

In Family Life

In a family context, the virtue of responsibility is a cornerstone that fosters harmony and mutual support. It is exemplified through actions demonstrating a commitment to one’s duties and obligations within the family unit. Responsibility can be seen in parents ensuring the well-being and nurturing of their children, providing them with love, guidance, and a safe environment to grow in.

Similarly, children can display responsibility by respecting their parents, contributing to household chores, and taking their education seriously. In essence, responsibility in a family is an unspoken pact, a shared understanding that each member plays a crucial role in maintaining the family’s stability and happiness. In these small daily acts of consideration and care, the true essence of familial responsibility shines, creating a loving and supportive environment for all.

Balancing Virtues:

      • Humility: Humility tempers an overdeveloped sense of responsibility by reminding individuals that it’s okay to ask for help and to acknowledge limitations. It fosters a willingness to collaborate and share responsibilities, promoting teamwork and collective success.
      • Discernment: Discernment helps individuals determine which responsibilities are theirs to bear and which should be entrusted to others. It prevents the overextension of one’s capacities and ensures a balanced distribution of tasks within the personal and professional realms.
      • Courage: Courage complements responsibility by empowering individuals to admit mistakes, make amends, and embrace change. It emboldens them to confront challenges, learn from setbacks, and continuously strive for improvement without succumbing to fear or avoidance.

Responsibility is pivotal in virtues, guiding us to honor our commitments, acknowledge our faults, and cultivate integrity in all our endeavors.