Moral virtues we acquire through practice; like the arts.
Aristotle
Benjamin Franklin was a true polymath! His wide variety of talents and skills combined with natural leadership abilities propelled him to the forefront during the birth of our nation, and beyond. Not only was he one of our nation's Founding Fathers, he was a prolific author, inventor, postmaster, musician, scientist, civic activist, political theorist, politician, statesman, and diplomat.
His theories and discoveries regarding electricity had a major impact on the world of science during the American Enlightenment age and some of his inventions revolutionized the very existence of the citizens living in our young nation!
Franklin was the inventor of many things. Some of his inventions included the lightning rod, bifocals, the Franklin stove, and the carriage odometer. He also formed both the first public lending library in America and first fire department in Pennsylvania!
As wise, and diversely talented as he was, Benjamin Franklin knew that there were things in life, such as moral virtues that must be practiced diligently. He knew that learning the definition of a virtue would in no way prepare him to have that quality in his life.
He wrote down, and defined, 13 virtues he believed mankind should aspire to and acknowledged that he must read the list over and over and truly practice each virtue.
His list of 13 virtues included:
- Temperance
- Silence
- Order
- Resolution
- Frugality
- Industry
- Sincerity
- Justice
- Moderation
- Cleanliness
- Tranquility
- Chastity, and
- Humility
Several years ago, I copied Franklin's list, along with his definitions of each virtue, and made it a point to spend some time each week focusing on one virtue and I started looking for ways that "virtue of the week" could apply to my life. I've noticed on several occasions that as a particular virtue was my focus, I would have an opportunity to practice that character-strengthening quality in a way I might have missed had I not been really thinking about it during that phase of my life.
I challenge you to "Google" Franklin's 13 Virtues right now and read the definitions for yourself. You may want to add some of your own to Franklin's list of 13 and begin practicing those life qualities. I can promise you will begin to notice changes very soon!
Blessings,
Sharon
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