The opposite of all the sins are the seven virtues that strive to counteract the deadly sins. These are also extremes.

GRATITUDE tempers envy because you worry less about what others have and are thankful for what you do have. I remember the saying about the man who had no shoes complaining until he saw the man who had no feet. This is a good example, but it can be a little unrealistic, because the man without shoes is still in a bad way. We should be grateful to be alive, but are people who are not living really happy about existing?

TEMPERANCE is a holding back or moderation that counteracts gluttony. It’s a good practice to do things in moderation because it helps you physically and mentally stay fit. There are instances where another extreme is used that is not good for you, though. One example is deprivation of food to lose weight (anorexia) when you need the nutrients that foods give you – it’s better to practice the moderation and just cut down on what you eat and maybe change some of the items in your diet.

CHARITY, the opposite of greed, is practiced when we give wholeheartedly. We do things like donate to causes and buy gifts for birthdays and holidays. The charity isn’t always shown except on special occasions, when we want something in return, or to get the tax deduction; but there are also times when we are generous for the sake of the generosity.

CHASTITY, the virtue against lust, is too old fashioned for my tastes because it is attached to marriage and chattel. Of course, chattel is (or is supposed to be) nonexistent now. The new word is abstinence, and it is practiced by some because they are holding out for marriage. For those of us who are either not interested in marriage or will accept it if or when it comes, it is not a practice to consider.

HUMILITY is the opposite of pride and is a virtue that should be thought out carefully the same way pride should. Why? Because humility can result in the same downfalls of being hesitant about yourself or being too docile to say no to the help or suggestions of others. I hope we have all practiced a form of humility when someone has shown genuine affection or caring for us. I think that it should not be practiced when in the presence of celebrities, for example, because they are also human and fallible just like us. And you may be surprised by their humility for their fan base.

DILIGENCE counteracts sloth because work and effort are involved. I mentioned in my book about the strong work ethic of myself and my family (immediate and extended). Having a good work ethic strengthens your character, but it should never overshadow your family life or other interests.

PATIENCE, the practice of consideration and taking time before acting (count to ten), is the opposite of wrath. Wrath is the greatest form of anger and is very dangerous, but turning the other cheek is not always applicable either. Patience should be practiced when communicating more than anything else, because words cannot be unsaid. And it is extra important with teaching a child or helping anyone – frustration should be tempered when in a leadership role.

We should strive for the Maslow hierarchy of self-actualization, but remember and carry our flaws along with us. It is true that you have to have the good with the bad in order to realize the wonderfulness of the good.