7 Ways to Practice Virtue in Dating

Virtue, described as moral excellence and honorable conduct, is a concept that goes deeper than a simple definition. More than just a word, it aligns with principles such as morality, integrity, and ethical strength. It can be interpreted in multiple ways, but how is it relevant to dating? 7 ways to incorporate virtue into dating ...

Viena Abdon

Young man and woman sitting together while watching boats in the harbor.

Ancient Chinese Wisdom: Brotherly Love and Virtue

In traditional Chinese culture, the bond between brothers is highly valued, and it is considered to be one of the most important relationships a person can have. Some people treat their brothers like strangers, refusing to help them when they are in need. However, those who treat their brothers with love and affection will be ...

Trisha Haddock

Two brothers sitting on a wooden bench by a lake in the fall.

The Power of Virtue: The Story of Liu Hongjing

In the Tang Dynasty, there was a merchant named Liu Hongjing whose ancestors had lived between the Huai River and the sea for generations. He was always virtuous, but never boasted, so people didn’t know about him. Although his family was very wealthy, he did not resent when others took advantage of him, and he ...

Emma Lu

A single white lily flower.

Sima Guang: Assessing the Abilities and Virtues of People

Sima Guang (1019-1086), courtesy name Junshi, was a native of Shanxi Xia County, a litterateur, and a historian in the Northern Song Dynasty. He consecutively served as an official across four emperors, taking charge of the compilation of the first Chinese general history, History as a Mirror. He was a paradigm of Confucian education and ...

Nspirement Staff

Sima Guang.

The Virtue of Gratitude: A Meal Worth a Thousand Pieces of Gold

The idiom of “a meal worth a thousand pieces of gold” is a common saying in China and dates back to Han Xin of the Han Dynasty. It means that one should always show gratitude for the kindness received from someone. Although the favor received may be very small, even a little help in times ...

Tatiana Denning

Egg noodles and rice.

Virtue is the Key to Receiving the Boss’s Admiration

We can see a person’s responsibilities and upbringing through the small things they do; in other words, small details can reflect a person’s virtue and character. Employees who do their work well, and pay attention to the small details, receive admiration from their bosses and other employees. As the saying goes: “Small details can ruin ...

Max Lu

Employees clapping.

Socrates: Virtue is Knowledge

One evening in June 399 B.C., an elderly man in his seventies named Socrates was languishing in an Athens jail and was about to be executed. He was ragged in dress, with messy hair and bare feet, yet he appeared calm. After saying farewell to his family, he chatted animatedly with friends, seemingly oblivious to ...

Helen London

"The Death of Socrates," painting by Jacques-Louis David.

Filial Piety: A Virtue Prized Above All Others

In traditional Chinese culture, filial piety — loving, respecting, and caring for one’s parents — is the virtue prized above all others. The following is a modern-day story about how children should practice filial piety. Xiao Li came from a rather poor family in his village, but he was fortunate enough to go to college. After ...

Kathy McWilliams

Elderly Chinese parents pose for a photo with their daughter in a restaurant.