Virtue is not natural to us — we are not born courageous or just or temperate. But neither is it contrary to our nature. We are born with the capacity for virtue, which we develop through practice. Consider: How does one become a builder? By building. How does one become a musician? By playing music. How does one become just? By doing just acts. How does one become courageous? By facing fears. This is crucial: You do not first become virtuous and then act virtuously. You become virtuous by acting virtuously, even before it feels natural. At first, the courageous act requires effort. With practice, it becomes easier. Eventually, it becomes second nature — it becomes who you are. But be warned: The same process works in reverse. Each cowardly act makes the next more likely. Each dishonest act erodes integrity. We are always becoming something through our choices. Seek models. Find people whose character you admire and study them. Not to imitate blindly, but to understand what excellence looks like in practice. We learn virtue partly through examples. Choose your companions wisely. We become like those we spend time with. Surround yourself with people who bring out your best qualities and gently challenge your worst ones. And know that this is lifelong work. I did not say becoming a better person is easy. I said it is possible. The person who expects instant transformation will be disappointed. The person who commits to gradual, consistent effort will look back years hence amazed at how far they have come.
