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Pat Wagner's avatar

I thought this was interesting, because it comes from a different point of view from mine.

I like the idea of dividing virtues between social - community - and personal, which I think of as personal responsibility. For me they twine together with other virtues, but I don't think I would have picked these first.

I learned from my atheist dad that the first virtues were - telling the truth, including speaking up about your own mistakes before someone else has to point them out; standing up against bullies (question authority), and at the same time, treating everyone with respect - manners and courtesy. He stood up against the Chicago Machine and won, and his employees adored him. Oh, and support the Chicago Cubs.

I learned from my atheist mom that you owe the world at least one daily good deed to pay back for the gift of life. And tomorrow is another day, meaning focus on the future, not the past. I try.

When I was young and alone (and lonely), I read a suggestion for finding "true love." Write down the virtues you want in the other person in order of importance. It helped me recognize the person in my life who exemplified the virtues that were important to me and what I found attractive in potential partners. Number one on the list was kindness. Integrity, idealism, and respect for others followed. In terms of attractiveness, I admit to finding smart sexy. I can say, 49 years later, the list worked.

And, Bertrand Russell said, "The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time."

Thank you!

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Daymon Pascual's avatar

This is great and I've always resonated with you on the 3 treasures, as you've described. I learned a QiGong routine from a WuDang monk years ago, that specifically cultivates these 3 centers. If you're interested I can show you and pass it along to you, as it is part of my core practice.

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Max Borders's avatar

wow, yes. I’d be honored

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Daymon Pascual's avatar

OK, let me know when you have some time to connect. Or come out to Colorado and we can meet in person. I live in a place most people like to vacation.

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