Vitalizing Our Virtues

VIRTUES are the basis of genuine happiness…the elements of the human spirit…the truest expression of our souls.

Vitalizing Our Virtues is a community building virtue development support group developed by Baha’is in Yellow Springs. Through a simple yet meaningful process, Vitalizing Our Virtues supports reflection, encourages growth, and strengthens connection with others—helping translate shared insights into positive change in our daily lives.

If you are interested in forming a group in your neighborhood or among friends and acquaintances we will give you the support you need in order to get started. Email us at VitalizingOurVirtues@gmail.com

Why Develop Our Virtues?

Virtues are like a common golden thread through all religions and have served to uplift humanity throughout the ages. Virtues of trustworthiness and justice are the foundation for a peaceful society. Virtues such as kindness and love are like flowers that bring joy and beauty to the world.

The benefits of improved spiritual and emotional health, greater happiness and overall well-being can be acquired from developing our virtues. In turn this will have a positive influence on our relationships and other social interactions.

Virtues are prerequisites for successful and sustainable change:

Healthier habits: detachment, perseverance, self-control
Managing anger: patience, tolerance, compassion 
Healing from loss: acceptance, resilience, independence
Enduring hardship: optimism, patience, perseverance

Format and Structure

Tea and Fellowship:

Each participant will have the opportunity to host the group if desired. (15 minutes)

Devotional Portion:

This portion is designed to be inclusive, so people of all backgrounds—religious, spiritual, or non-religious—can participate comfortably together. Participants may share a prayer, affirmation, poem, or inspirational passage related to the virtue being explored, or choose from selections provided. The selected readings are drawn from the world’s religious traditions, offering a chance to become familiar with their beauty while discovering the shared human virtues they encourage. In this way, we deepen our appreciation of one another while nurturing qualities such as acceptance, open-mindedness, understanding, and unity.(15 minutes)

Virtues Reflection Cards:

Each virtue is described in detail. Practical action statements on how to practice the virtue and an affirmation are part of each card. One person reads the card and shares with others how it speaks to them. The card is passed around for each to reflect and share. (See Virtues Reflection Cards) (30 – 40 Minutes) Download Virtue List

The Virtue Incident Report:

Participants can share a meaningful “Virtue Incident” they experienced or observed first hand in a family member, friend, stranger, co-worker, employee, etc… during the previous weeks that touched or impressed them. (5-10 minutes)

Personal Virtues Work:

Additional Options: Each participant declares to the group 1-3 virtues they would like to work on and practice. Sharing why you choose that particular virtue is entirely optional, as your reasons may be too personal. At a subsequent meeting each person can share their progress or challenge with practicing their chosen virtues in their daily life. Other group members can then briefly offer constructive feedback or encouragement, if and when appropriate. Different virtues to be practiced can be declared at each meeting, or the same virtues can be worked on for as long as the participant wishes. (5-10 minutes per person, also includes possible feedback)

Journaling: Journaling is encouraged between sessions.

Please Note: This group is not intended to become a therapy group to help members solve difficult personal problems. However, as we learn to discern the virtues we need to call forth, we will be empowered to peacefully resolve many of life’s challenges.

This format was designed by Brook Parker, a Yellow Springs resident and retired social worker. She has been hosting a group of seven or eight women for more than nine years. Meeting duration is 2-2.5 hours and has a maximum of eight members due to the time needed for interpersonal sharing. Consistent participation is preferable to foster a supportive and trusting atmosphere. Occasionally this group may have an opening. If you are interested in forming a group you are welcome to come as a guest.

Comments from Participants:

For years I have been working on improving my patience and tact. This support group helps put these virtues in the forefront of my mind and aids my accountability in working on them. Luan H.

I look forward to each gathering as a chance to bring my focus back to my behavior and how I can work on improving my relationships with others. The virtues I’ve been working on have changed over the years and the supportive environment of the group has allowed me to gain insights into what I can do to effect positive changes within myself. Kim K.

Neighborhood Group

Before the pandemic a neighbor women’s group had been formed in the Thistle Creek neighborhood. They used a modified version of this format. All the participants expressed their delight in coming together in such a meaningful way. We will gladly assist you in getting your own neighborhood group started.

If interested please email us at VitalizingOurVirtues@gmail.com .