Cultivating Virtue: Exploring Oneness


Years ago, a wise teacher named Greg Kramer introduced an exercise in cultivating virtue—an invitation to reflect on our kind and generous acts. That simple practice opened a doorway to something profound.

To feel more unified, to experience a sense of oneness, I turn toward virtue. Selfless acts awaken a higher power within me and align my being with something greater than myself.

The human brain, with its hundred billion cells, is divided into two hemispheres that constantly communicate. The left hemisphere concerns itself with the past and future. It thinks in lines, organizes details, and processes language through an inner voice that reminds us of tasks and responsibilities. It is the seat of calculating intelligence—the voice that insists, “I am separate.”

But when I access the right hemisphere, I experience myself as a conscious presence—interconnected, inwardly attuned. I feel a deeper freedom when I connect with the greater whole. Yet too often, the left dominates, narrowing my awareness and limiting that sense of unity.

By choosing to see what is positive or possible, I navigate my circumstances with greater ease—before falling into what’s lacking or critical. When I reframe cynicism into optimism, I unlock creativity, flexibility, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Seeing the silver lining in grey clouds allows the rainbow to shine. The challenge lies in creating meaning in a world many perceive as meaningless.

Clarity and truth in my circumstances open the door to joy. Greater understanding brings greater freedom—freedom to see why things are the way they are, and how they came to be. That freedom expands my choices. It’s not that pessimism is wrong or optimism is right—it’s about finding the right balance in each unique moment.

The more I experience my true nature—pure, radiant, and peaceful—the more liberated I become. This stimulates my sense of harmony. All great champions train in contemplative practices, visualizing success and programming their minds toward selfless awareness and service.


Cultivate virtue in yourself, and virtue becomes real.  

Cultivate virtue in the family, and virtue will flourish.  

Cultivate virtue in the village, and virtue will spread.  

Cultivate virtue in the nation, and virtue will be abundant.  

Cultivate virtue in the world, and virtue will triumph.  

 —Lao Tzu



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