I enjoy listening to Krista Tibbit and her conversations full of wisdom on the On Being Project. Their words always give life, and something rises within me that makes me think yes maybe the world can be a better place after all.
The group recently published what they call their “Grounding Virtues.” These are the six basic principles that guide the work they do. They believe what they practice, they become.
- Words that Matter
- Hospitality
- Humility
- Patience
- Generous Listening
- Adventurous Civility
For each virtue, they have written a paragraph full of wisdom and inspiration about each virtue. Well worth reading and pondering, especially since it is such a unique list of principles, don’t you think? Check them out here.
Makes me wonder what would be on my list. I took this list on my recent silent retreat and prayed about this. Then remembered in a way I already had my own Grounding Virtues in my Rule of Life. If you are interested in learning more about writing a rule of life, check out my book about Creating A Rule of Life on Amazon. Sorry for the plug…
The only difference between my rule of life and their list was how we formatted the virtues as my rule does contain much of what I believe in. Could I distill my rule into six or so basic virtues? Probably. Love always. Forgive often. Pray. Be Faithful. Practice Gratitude. Be Merciful. Listen to God, to others and to your own heart. Trust always.
The trouble though it didn’t seem to capture all that my rule of life held. A fun experiment that helped me see my rule of life in a new way. A holy process that provided a rich time of prayer with God reviewing how I live my life.
This practice also made me assess if there were a virtue God may be inviting me to consider adding to my rule of life. I plan to spend some time in my journal in the coming weeks praying and exploring additional virtues other writers mention to see if any “bubble” up into my spirit as an invitation for more exploration. I believe we always must be open to listening to God’s invitation to grow and learn.
What virtues call to your heart lately? Which ones are your basics ones?
I love this list you’ve shared from this group as well as your own, Jean. It certainly has inspired me to take a step back and reflect upon how I would prioritize beliefs and practices. God bless always!
I found this list made me pause and think too and wonder what else could I add. I continue to be open to God’s light to shine what is missing too. What is God inviting me yet to learn?
Attentiveness comes to mind, as I desire to keep my thoughts within the parameters of Philippians 4:8–on those things that are true, noble, and right, pure, lovely, and admirable, excellent and praiseworthy. “Thinking conditions conduct” (Anne Graham Lotz, The Vision of His Glory). I pray it may be so!
Attentiveness is a great addition. I noticed curiosity isn’t on my list and never quite mention within my rule of life and yet is something I value. I do mention life long learning yet curiosity mindset is a little different too.