Cultivating virtues could be described as any process that leads to conformity to a standard deemed moral or right. I could give a strong argument around human destiny and life purpose revolving around the cultivation of virtues. Breaking the bond between the Lower Self and the Higher Self leads to awakening. How could we break that bond without some form of spiritual growth or alignment with core vibrations? Each individual might work on a set of specific virtues in this lifetime, with those key virtues as the goal of the soul (tee hee). Developing characteristics or traits might hold a certain value appraised at the subconscious level.
Since ancient times, humankind has created archetypes used as models of inspiration to cultivate virtues. Aristotle defined a virtue as a point closer to one extreme than the other. For example, confidence is somewhere between vanity and self-depreciation. Aristotle expressed that the cultivation of virtues was path-dependent, which has been challenged by modern psychologists who believe the growth of virtues is path-independent. In other words, we may naturally develop virtues that are aligned with our core vibrations regardless of the path we take. There are many who would challenge engaging in a process that cultivates a virtue. My sense is that to grow any virtue, we need to practice, practice, practice! Let’s practice the growth of intuitive ethics by listening for a whisper on cultivating virtues:
The benefit of cultivating virtues is the inner peace that comes with achieving balance with emotions, relationships, behavior, and a way of being in the world. Shifting toward alignment with core values often includes a process of movement beyond a pattern influenced by energetic imprints. Patterns exert a major influence on behavior, so anything that serves as a deviation from a standard requires devotion or discipline.
Any attitude can create an imbalance with persons who allow themselves to become settled into a way of thinking and behaving. Assuming to know without factual basis represents a loss of innocence and a refusal to allow for flexibility. Limitations are formed, and leaning toward an extreme can begin movement away from core virtues. Stress will inhibit self-awareness to further support movement away from balance.
With core virtues there is a position between two extremes where curiosity is free to explore in a land of no judgments. Virtues can grow and expand with balanced energy, intentional living, greater self-awareness, and conscious treatment of the self and others. By allowing love to be the focus with all decisions, commitment and devotion to a life of purpose build the architecture of spirit. Stability is achieved by virtues expressed to align with values, morality, character, and actions defining true nature.
Cultivating virtues is practicing balance, clarity, and calmness with ways to be at peace with the self. When one is not living under high levels of stress, greater levels of self-awareness activate the internal guidance system. Constant connection to divinity is realized as a core virtue.
Bring joy, ease suffering and create beauty, then dance like you mean it!
Blessings, Russell
“Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.” Maya Angelou
