Virtue Is In The Middle

The phrase " virtue is in the middle " has been well-known since ancient times. It refers to the philosophical concept of the "Golden Mean", developed by Aristotle, where virtue lies between extremes of excess and deficiency. This makes it a recognizable phrase, particularly within the context of ethics and philosophy, used by St. Thomas Aquinas in the Middle Ages with the Latin phrase—in medio stat virtus. 

In Korea, as in many other areas of the world, we have many types of polarization. Conservative, Liberal, and Centrist, Patriarchal and Feminist, blue collar and white collar, etc. The Cardinal Virtue of Temperance is the one that helps exercise self-control and moderation, keep the discussion open, and lessen the dangers present when polarization arises.

They are called cardinal virtues because all the other virtues are "hinged" upon these four. "Cardinal" comes from the Latin word cardo, meaning hinge. They are Prudence, Justice, Courage, and Temperance.

In these modern times, the virtue of Temperance or moderation may be the least practiced of the four.

Temperance is defined by the Catechism of the Catholic Church as “the moral virtue that moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will's mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable” (CCC 18090).

Escapism is a word used to describe how we avoid challenges in life and problems with polarization. One great challenge is making the world a better place for all. Selfish desires that take our attention off the realities in life immoderately can be a problem. Not wanting to accept reality, distorting, denying, or focusing on some other area of life to intentionally forget the challenges. 

We need a change of pace, time for leisure, hobbies, and interests that will energize us but always in moderation, for we know that too much, even of a good thing, is not good.

Using distractions to avoid dealing with problems instead of seeking solutions is not the Christian way. We pray for a deeper spiritual life and work with others to be more open to the call of discipleship. To do what we do with a little more concern for others would be a small step in the right direction.