101 Virtues to apply to your life. Number One hundred

 101 Virtues to apply to your life. Number One hundred

 

Let’s explore the book of virtues that George Washington copied at 14 and followed throughout his life. These virtues are based on Aristotle's writings and have been refined and enhanced over the centuries. We can translate them into modern language and find practical ways to apply them.

 

 

Number One hundred

Let your recreations be manful, not sinful.

 

The phrase "Let your recreations be manful, not sinful" encourages engaging in leisure activities that are honorable, constructive, and align with personal integrity, rather than being harmful or morally questionable. It emphasizes choosing pastimes that uplift character and contribute positively to oneself and others.

This virtue promotes selecting hobbies and entertainment that are wholesome, respectful, and purposeful. It suggests avoiding activities that degrade values, exploit others, or lead to negative consequences, instead favoring those that foster growth, community, or genuine enjoyment without guilt.

 

Practical, Contemporary Applications

Choose Mindful Entertainment

 opt for media like inspiring films, books, or games that provoke thought or creativity, rather than content promoting violence, objectification, or addiction. For example, consider watching documentaries or playing cooperative games instead of engaging in excessive binge-watching or visiting toxic online forums.

   

Engage in Active Hobbies

Pursue activities like hiking, sports, or volunteering that build physical health, mental resilience, and social bonds. For instance, consider joining a local sports league or organizing a community clean-up instead of spending hours on passive, isolating activities like endless scrolling.

 

Socialize with Purpose

Spend leisure time with people who encourage positive behavior. Host game nights, attend workshops, or participate in group activities that strengthen relationships, rather than frequenting environments that pressure you into compromising your values, like excessive drinking scenes.

 

Balance Digital and Real Life

Limit time on platforms that foster comparison or negativity (e.g., specific social media apps) and invest in hands-on activities, such as cooking, gardening, or learning a new skill. Set a daily screen-time limit and replace it with a creative outlet, such as journaling or painting.

 

Reflect on Impact

Before engaging in a recreational activity, ask: “Does this align with who I want to be?” For example, instead of engaging in activities like gambling or gossip, try practices such as meditation or mentoring, which nurture personal growth and benefit others.

 

By choosing recreations that are intentional and enriching, you cultivate a lifestyle that’s both fulfilling and ethically sound, reflecting this virtue in a modern context.