“Our virtues are inseparable, like force and matter. When they separate, man is no more.”
-Nikola Tesla
Patience is a virtue. We have all heard this from either our parents or an adult while growing up. But what are the other virtues that are connected to the virtue of patience? Inventor Nikola Tesla once said that our virtues are inseparable much like force and matter. In essence he implores they are stronger together but if they are broken and separated they no longer make up the qualities that we all hope to possess. Virtues are types of behaviors that show high moral standards hence that is why they are so deeply connected and actually build upon one another.
Greek philosopher Aristotle had twelve virtues that he believed in:
1) Courage – bravery
2) Temperance – moderation
3) Liberality – spending
4) Magnificence – charisma, style
5) Magnanimity – generosity
6) Ambition – pride
7) Patience – temper, calm
8) Friendliness – social IQ
9) Truthfulness – honesty, candidness
10) Wit – humor, joy
11) Modesty – ego
12) Justice – sense of right / wrong, indignation
Which ones resonate with you most? Can you see which connect seamlessly with one another. For me I try to live by many of these especially as it relates to ambition, patience, friendliness, truthfulness, wit, modesty and justice. By knowing what our virtues are we better understand ourselves, who we are and what we stand for.
What does this quote mean to you and how can you apply today’s message towards improving your self awareness?
