TEMPERANCE

Aside from justice and prudence, there is a third element that wins the confidence of others as in the case of Joseph, Daniel and Moses.

By the counsels of Moses, wars were brought to an end; Daniel softened the character of the barbarians.

And this characteristic is temperance or self-restraint in soul and body. Though enjoying royal friendships, they sought not for gold nor counted the honour given them as more precious than their Faith. For they were willing to endure danger for the law of God rather than to be turned from their purpose in order to gain the favour of men.

Joseph showed this in his chastity wherewith he rejected the allurements of his mistress and refused rewards.

Here are people with fruitful spirits and fertile minds who enriched the barrenness of their times with the wealth of their counsels.

St. Ambrose, Duties of the Clergy, Ch. XI

(11-23-02)