“Inwardly, we ought to be different in every respect, but our outward dress should blend in with the crowd.”Seneca
In our society focused on appearance, this quote reminds us to prioritize inner virtues over external showmanship. For example, while it's essential to excel in your work, it's equally important to remain humble and avoid boasting about your achievements.
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.
Temperance is reflected in the idea of maintaining inner virtues while not seeking attention or validation from external appearances. In this context, focusing on humility and true character rather than flaunting outward success is essential for personal growth and virtue. This aligns with Matthew 23:27-28, where Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their outward displays of righteousness while lacking true inner purity.