Value of the Month: TEMPERANCE

 

Temperance in its modern use is defined as moderation or voluntary self-restraint.

Why is temperance important?

Temperance is important, not because it makes us not want to desire pleasure or enjoy things. On the contrary, it helps us to recognize the value of our desires and the satisfaction of them but in balance and according to their nature, guided by our reason. discretion with regards to our curiosity and desire to know.

How do you practice temperance?

Here are some helpful tips in showing the manly virtue of temperance.

1. Analyze your life and be specific.
2. Analyze the area where you lack self-control.
3. Set goals easily accomplished.
4. Stay accountable.
5. Review your progress regularly with others.
6. Deny yourself.
7. Don’t remove your desire from your life.

Hercules and Temperance

(The story of Hercules at the crossroads)

For ancient greek athletes the mythical example of self-control was the hero Hercules. The story of Hercules at the crossroads originates from the greek story teller Prodikos of Keos (aprox 400. B.C.).

Hercules meets two women at a crossroads. These women are the personifications of Virtue (Arete) and Vice (Kakia..the goddess of evil). They both advise Hercules to follow the road they show him.

Virtue (Arete), points at a rocky and steep road. This isn’t a nice and easy road, it has on it many trials and tribulations. But at the end there will be a reward of fame and glory.

Vice (Kakia) points at a ‘better’, more attractive road, one which is much easier to travel…the path of vice.

Hercules can take the easy passable road, that is flat and where he can have a lot of fun, right now. Or the difficult road, with view on a beautiful, but far away future. It is hard to choose.

When the women have disappeared, Hercules chooses the hard path of temperance, discipline and self-control……the way Virtue (Arete) showed him.

Hercules remains the captain of his soul and the hero. Hercules remains the hero, also in this story.