The Screwtape Letters – C. S. Lewis (1942)
(Fictional correspondence between a senior tempter (devil) and his protégé, Wormwood).
As the concept of virtues is that of showing the highest moral standards then, it goes without saying that someone with evil intentions would wish to reverse the impact they have on others.
The Virtues …
- Chastity - refraining from all extramarital forms of sexual encounters.
- Temperance – abstinence from all alcohol
- Charity – the voluntary giving of help
- Diligence … careful and persistent effort
- Patience … the capacity for tolerance
- Kindness … friendliness, generosity, and compassion
- Humility … a modest view of own importance
The Seven Virtues are always great topics to use in creative writing exercises, as most people can relate to at least one, if not all of them. Then putting a 100-word limit on the writing really concentrates the mind about their true meanings.
Diligence - by Lee Montgomery-Hughes
Saint or sinner, heaven or hell, I have for you a tale to tell. On a misty night at the crack of day, beware the illusions that come your way. In the ancient graveyard don’t venture deep and beware the cherub, with dirty feet. Don’t fall for her cries or the tears from her eyes and shut your ears to her harrowing lies. This cute little ghoul will trap your soul, then not up to heaven, but down below to Hades underworld you shall go. So, watch your step and heed her well, this baby demon comes straight from hell.