Be Present, Take Action, Live Virtuously

Be still. Exercise patience. Quiet your mind, and all things are revealed to you. Clarity is available to those who earnestly seek it. Do not think the journey and your purpose will be unveiled to you in whole from the onset – rather that which is necessary now, in this current moment, your next step forward. Take this next one step forward and do not delay. There is no wrong in dreaming of a distant future; this is a gift bestowed upon all humans. However, do not bathe endlessly in these thoughts. Instead, have discipline to limit your time daydreaming and get to work on the current task at hand.

Be present and focused on the task at hand, leaning into the wisdom of those that have come before you. Practice "premeditatio malorum," the premeditation of evils, contemplating potential obstacles and challenges that may arise. You will be better prepared, responding with wisdom and equanimity.

Be a man of action, one who moves daily with purpose. Avoid being caught in thought alone for too long. While contemplation and consideration are useful, remind yourself that thoughts alone do not manifest your realities or give evidence to your character. A man who thinks they are virtuous is nothing compared to the man whose actions are virtuous.

Think of the concept of "arete" or excellence of character which becomes central to living a virtuous life. It's not enough to merely think about virtue; you must actively embody it through your actions and choices. This requires cultivating habits of moral integrity, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Take action, begin the practice of turning thought into action and learning, proving to all around you and most importantly yourself, that you are the person you believe yourself to be.