Four Cardinal Virtues

Be not simply good; be good for something---Henry David Thoreau

          AMONG bits of lore that remain with us today, we find the “four cardinal virtues.”  They are temperance, fortitude, prudence, and justice, and each is said to exist ideally on a scale-point balanced between deficiency and excess.

          TEMPERANCE teaches us moderation.   Outwardly, this refers to the pleasures of senses, a nutritious diet, and avoiding intoxicants.  In inner practice it means to nurture a calm and balanced emotional life.

          FORTITUDE is about courage and strength, and getting plenty of exercise.  On the inside, it suggests focus and concentration, and not permitting distraction from one’s goal. 

          PRUDENCE means to conserve one’s resources and spend time and money wisely; the esoteric meaning is that, plus conserving one’s psychological and spiritual energy by using the power of one’s word prudently.

          JUSTICE requires that we treat others fairly; inwardly it requires more than just actions, but that we think of them fairly, too, by releasing our sentiments and forgiving anyone we have judged.

          “CARDINAL” comes from a root that means “hinge.”   Much hinges on our response to life, such as the next set of experiences we will be ushered into, by virtue of our choices in the present moment. 

Align yourself with the best ways and means of accomplishing your dreams and living in strength and wellness.  By natural intuitive knowing, you are led to make the kindest and most effective choices in every circumstance you meet.

An Hour of Silence Every Day

Schedule your hour of silence at a particular time every day.

          During that hour, turn off the phone, TV, radio, computer, and all other appliances and communication devices.  Put down all books and other reading material.

          Light a candle to be witness to your hour of silence.

          Sit quietly and rest---or look carefully at a natural object---or engage in work that does not require you to hear, see, or express words.

Maybe a long walk in nature or gardening are excellent activities of silence.

          Listen to the silence, all the time enjoying this hour-long respite from thinking, reviewing planning and imagining.  Stay in the present moment.

          Breathe deeply and mindfully, bringing in the silence, expelling mental “noise.”

          At the end of your hour of silence, let your first word be an expression of gratitude or love, then put out the candle and go about your business.