The Seven Virtue Academy
The world often feels like it is caught in a storm of disorder. The New York Times is currently running an editorial series dedicated to just that topic, and that inspired us to create this collection.
You do not need to read the morning headlines to know that the chaos is loud and getting closer. The question we should all be asking ourselves is—how did we get here, and is there a more productive path forward? And what can I do about all this mess—what can any one of us do?
George Washington and the founders of the American experiment had specific ideas about what each of us can and should do to hold the nation together. They saw virtue as the cornerstone that makes the self-governance of free people possible, and in truth, as the only glue that will ever be able to hold this nation together.
That is why they sought to live virtuous lives, however imperfectly, knowing that if you remove that moral foundation, the entire American project will perish from the earth.
Laws alone cannot stop a society from descending into chaos. If a people cannot govern their own desires and passions, bad actors will inevitably step in. Benjamin Franklin understood this well. He didn't just theorize about good character; he built a practical system for it. He made a deliberate decision to live according to a list of classic virtues, focusing intensely on a single trait each week until those habits became the beating heart of his daily life.
That enduring, practical example is the foundation of The Seven Virtue Academy collection. Our goal is to make it apparent in as many people's lives as possible that virtue has value, is appreciated, and is desirable. We want as many as possible to show their support.
History offers another example. Marcus Aurelius, widely considered one of the greatest Roman emperors, famously dedicated his life and rule to the pursuit of virtue.
We believe the seven classic virtues are time-tested stepping stones toward a better life for our people and the nation. But we know that abstract ideas are easily forgotten in a busy world. That is why we designed this collection of physical goods and apparel. We understand that each individual act is but a small rock, but out of many small rocks, we build a sturdy house.
By proudly wearing the virtue that is relevant in your life—or passing these values down to the next generation—you are doing more than putting on a piece of clothing. You are choosing a physical, daily reminder to stand for something worthy and sturdy. We encourage you to use these virtues to start a conversation with your friends and neighbors. Even if passions have strained, they must not break our bonds of affection.
Explore our new goods and apparel collection here.
Please read about each of the Seven Virtues below:
Prudence: Practice wisdom in all things. Take the long view into consideration. Ask if this will endure many days and years from now. Make wise choices and use good judgment, with friends, neighbors, and projects alike.
Justice: Treat everyone with respect, and the dignity they deserve. All parents know that every child has an ingrained sense of justice and fairness. We all do. Our world needs justice and a shared moral standard to endure. Give each person their rightful due.
Fortitude: Be courageous, act honorably. Be strong and show the mental endurance to do what is right even when it is difficult. Complete the tasks and projects you take on even when it requires you to endure hardships.
Temperance: Practice self-control and moderation. Study, listen to your neighbors and your own mind, and do not let your emotions carry you too far or let sudden cravings take over. Seek to find balance in all things.
Faith: Trust in a higher purpose, and divine guidance. We all know in our heart of hearts that there is more to the universe than meets the eye. That is why there is no atheist in a foxhole. Have faith; your life has a higher purpose.
Hope: Be optimistic and hopeful each and every day. Desire and expect that positive outcomes are always possible—even if they are not guaranteed. Hope is given life with diligent optimism and the unwavering expectation of a better future.
Love: Be patient. Be kind. Have empathy. Listen to and walk with your neighbors. It is only with your heart that you can truly see. Give your time gracefully and practice generosity toward your fellow travelers.
• Focus on virtue worked for the Roman Empire
• Virtue helped the Founders lay the foundations of the America Experiment
• Lifting up the 7 Virtues can work to improve us & our world
