Our fourth virtue is that of Temperance.  In some ways, it is the least popular of the virtues – today, the world tells us to pursue our passions, not to regulate them; to be all-in; to hold nothing back.  But this is the attitude that produces superstar athletes, rock star musicians, and movie star actors, whose extraordinary talents and accomplishments are matched only by their lack of self-control.

Thomas Aquinas said that “Temperance is simply a disposition of the mind which binds the passion”—rather than one that pursues it.  A temperate man is not overwhelmed by his emotions, by his appetite, or by his desires—he may become angry, but does not lose his temper; he enjoys a good meal, but does not eat indulgently; he desires success, but does not pursue it at all costs.  And, as Proverbs tells us, it is the temperate man who is the real superstar:

Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty,
    and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.

Temperance may not be popular; indeed, it is far better than that.  Be a superstar of Temperance today.

Have a wonderful day.