Project 31: Day 9: Virtuous

Day 9. What virtues do you value in yourself?

Virtuous is, by definition, having or showing high moral standards. I would say I have high moral standards in some areas. I found the seven heavenly virtues (as well-known in Catholicism) to put a face to the concept of virtuousness. Though I'm not Catholic, I think it helps to have specific guidelines for this topic.

1. Chastity - I saved myself for marriage. No one has ever regretted waiting. It's totally 100% worth it.

2. Temperance - When defined as moderation or self-restraint, I would say I practice temperance in some areas better than others. I am pretty good at not parting with my money unnecessarily when it comes to shopping or eating out. I like to choose the least expensive items on the menu at restaurants. As far as abstaining from alcoholic beverage, I don't drink a whole lot, but I would be lying if I said I never drank anything alcoholic. I probably drink one drink (only one any given time) once or twice every 3 months.

3. Charity - Even though my heart is definitely in it, I am not very good about this at the moment. I used to sponsor a child in the Dominican Republic, but she "graduated" from the program and I no longer sponsor her. I'm working on this.

4. Diligence - When I was in school, my teachers always commented on my progress reports that I was very diligent. I think it's still true for the most part, though I have a bit of trouble with self-motivation and procrastination. But once I do a project, I do it well. :o)

5. Patience - "Patience is a virtue; waiting won't hurt you." Um, not a virtue that I'm good at. At all.

6. Kindness - I am probably kinder than the average Joe, but I wouldn't say it is a virtue I value in myself. I don't think you can really be too kind (with the exception of being a pushover).

7. Humility - How can you possibly value humility in yourself? If you are proud of the fact that you are humble, isn't that kind of an oxymoron?

And one of my own that I'll throw in:

Profanity - I choose not to use profane language period. I do use the occasional "what the heck" or "crap" or "fricking" which are filler/alternate profanity, but I do not allow myself to even say the actual curse words. Call me childish, but I will spell out an explicative rather than say it. I know my limits and I know that if I begin to allow myself to say it in passing conversation that I will use it rashly or out of anger. I don't want my speech to be filled with obscene things. It's just a choice I've made.