How does a person become prudent? A person becomes prudent by learning to distinguish what is essential from what is non-essential, to set the right goals and to choose the best means of attaining them. The virtue of prudence directs all the other virtues. For prudence is the ability to recognize what is right. After all, someone who wants to lead a good life must know what the “good” is and recognize its worth. Like the merchant in the Gospel “who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it” (Mt 13:46). Only a prudent person can apply the virtues of justice, fortitude, and moderation so as to do good.
Posted on: Thu, 20 Jun 2013 19:26:46 +0000