How to Fight Vice with Virtue

When we are assailed by some vice, we must, as far as possible, embrace the practice of the contrary virtue.

—ST. FRANCIS DE SALES (January 24)

As with addiction and bad habits, acknowledgement is the first step towards recovery. Through a daily examination of conscience we have the opportunity to pinpoint bad habits and vices that may be overshadowing potential virtue. While it's important to avoid these vices and sins it's helpful to be aware of the oposing “extreme” vice which also acts contrary to the corresponding virtue. 

The following list might help aid in focusing on the positive virtues to overcome any vices in your life.

It has been super helpful for me to have a visual. I hope it proves helpful to you as well. Below are the virtues to ponder while praying the Holy Rosary:

Joyful mysteries (Traditionally said on Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays from Advent to Lent)

1. Annunciation (Lk 1,28) - Love of Humility

2. Visitation (Lk: 1,42) - Love of Neighbor

3. Nativity (Lk 2,7) - Spirit of Poverty

4. Presentation (Lk 2,28) - Virtue of Obedience

5. Finding in the Temple (Lk 2, 46) - Virtue of Piety

Sorrowful Mysteries (Traditionally said on Tuesdays, Fridays, and every day during Lent)

1. Agony in the Garden (Mk 14,35) - True Contrition

2. Scourging at the Pillar (Mk 15,15) - Virtue of Purity

3. Crowning with Thorns (Mk 15,17) - Moral Courage

4. Carrying of the Cross (Jn 19, 17) - Virtue of Patience

5. Crucifixion (Lk 13, 33) - Final Perseverance

Glorious Mysteries (Traditionally said on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and for Sundays from Easter to Advent)

1. Resurrection (Mk 16,6) - Virtue of Faith

2. Ascension (Mk 16,19) - Virtue of Hope

3. Descent of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2,4) - Love of God

4. Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Devotion to Our Lady

5. Crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Eternal Happiness

I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing.

- JOHN 15:5