Episode Summary:
In this episode, we dive deep into the virtue of temperance, one of the cardinal virtues alongside prudence, fortitude, and justice. Stina and Padre explore how temperance extends beyond merely saying no to excesses in food, drink, and sexual pleasure. Instead, they present temperance as a guiding force that enables us to balance our desires, celebrate life well, and choose greater goods over immediate pleasures. They also address common misconceptions, such as the restrictive views propagated by purity culture, and highlight how temperance can lead to a fuller, more meaningful life.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Temperance: Temperance is about balancing desires and instincts to choose what is good without being swayed by fleeting attractions.
- Regulating Desires: It involves recognising and regulating our likes, dislikes, desires, aversions, sorrow, and joy.
- Beyond Restrictions: Temperance is not just about avoiding gluttony, drunkenness, and improper sexual attraction; it’s about enjoying life’s pleasures in a balanced way.
- Celebrating Well: This virtue teaches us how to celebrate and honor God through the appropriate use of food, drink, and sexual attraction.
- Living Freely: Temperance allows us to live within our means and not be carried away by worldly attachments, promoting a free and meaningful expression of life.
Reflective Questions:
- In what ways can you apply the virtue of temperance beyond food and drink in your life?
- What are some immediate pleasures that you can choose to forego for the sake of a greater good?
- How can you use the concept of temperance to enhance your celebrations and honor God?
- How might embracing temperance help you live within your means and reduce attachments to worldly possessions?
Tune in to this insightful discussion to deepen your understanding of temperance and discover how this cardinal virtue can transform your approach to life’s pleasures and challenges.
TBG
Padre: Romano Guardini – The humanity of Christ: Contributions to a psychology of Jesus
Stina: Time slows down when you work in the nap
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