Choose a topic from Part 2A:

63. The Cause of Virtues

1. Virtues, even those called natural because they can beacquired by man's natural powers and efforts, are not in man byhis nature. For whatever belongs to the nature of man is found inall men, and is not lost by man's defection or sin.

2. Virtues of the natural order are acquired by repeatedgood acts. But virtues of the supernatural order are, bytheir name and definition, beyond the reach of nature, andtherefore cannot be acquired by repeated natural acts, however goodthese may be.

3. God infuses the supernatural virtues of faith, hope,and charity; He also infuses such other virtues as correspond tothese three and renders them effective.

4. Acquired virtues are essentially distinct from infusedvirtues. Of the infused virtues, St. Augustine says that "Godworks them in us without us." But we have to work to possessthe acquired virtues.

"To think of oneself as nothing, and always to think well and highly of others is the best and most perfect wisdom. Wherefore, if you see another sin openly or commit a serious crime, do not consider yourself better, for you do not know how long you can remain in good estate. All men are frail, but you must admit that none is more frail than yourself. "
Thomas á Kempis

* * *

"Happy is the youth, because he has time before him to do good. "
St Philip Neri

* * *

"Try to turn your heart from the love of things visible and bring yourself to things invisible. For they who follow their own evil passions stain their consciences and lose the grace of God. "
Thomas á Kempis

* * *