Four Virtues for Lent

Lent has begun. Already, we may be scrambling on how to better focus on the penitential season.

Over the years, I have been reflecting on four virtues Catholics can focus on during these six weeks leading up to Easter. They were based on my own experience, as I hope it helps others. These virtues are humility, patience, perseverance, and piety.

Humility

St. Augustine reminds us that humility is the most important virtue. Many of us need to learn that our dependence is on God and less on self.

It can also serve as a way for us to reach out when we need help or even offer a helping hand to those in need.

Patience

St. Francis De Sales said, "Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself".

Sometimes, we may not know what the situation is that may test our limits. Yet, it takes an extra effort to wait. It can be at the supermarket, and there’s a long line. Being an active listener when engaging in a conversation with someone or a group of people. Learn to accept things beyond your control.

In order to have patience, we must first learn to slow down and have God take control of the situation.

Perseverance

Sylvester Stallone would often say, “Keep punching”. That advice comes from someone who gave us a beloved fictional underdog named Rocky Balboa. In one scene, he would tell his son what it takes to keep going.

“Life's not about how hard a hit you can give... It's about how many you can take and still keep moving forward.”

Lent is an opportunity to keep moving even when we fall during our journey to the cross. Yes, we may set a goal to give up this or add something spiritual, and often we will slip. Yet we can pick up again with each day that is given to us.

Piety

“Train yourself in piety" (1 Timothy 4:7). Piety is defined as a gift of the Holy Spirit fostering a loving, filial relationship with God and a tender, compassionate heart toward others, rather than just outward religious routines.

Piety can be done by honoring our parents, obeying God’s commandments as an act of love, or even showing mercy towards others.

While there are other virtues we can work on, these four are a great start for one to strengthen their spiritual life.