For those interested in Christian perfection Spiritual Theology, by Fr. Jordan Aumann, is a comprehensive treatise on spiritual Theology which gives a practical insight on the virtues. See below, from Ch. 11 on the perfection of Prudence, the virtue of maturity:
Eight integral parts are required for the perfection of the virtue of prudence, five of which pertain to the speculative aspect and three to the practical aspect. Each and every part will not necessarily function in every instance of the exercise of the virtue, but all must be possessed so that they will function when particular circumstances require. The eight parts are:
1. Memory of the past, so that one may learn from experience what is to be done or avoided in particular circumstances.
2. Understanding of the present, so that one may judge whether a given action is lawful or unlawful, morally good or evil, fitting or unfitting.
3. Docility, so that those who lack experience may accept the counsel and advice of those who have experience.
4. Sagacity, so that one may act rightly in urgent cases when time or circumstances do not permit delay.
5. Reasoning power, so that when time permits, one may act after the required consideration and reflection.
6. Foresight, so that one may judge the immediate means in view of the end or goal being sought.
7. Circumspection, so that one may take into consideration the special circumstances surrounding a given act, as to persons and places.
8. Precaution, so that one will take into consideration the possible obstacles from without, or one’s own weakness or incapacity in view of a given action.
The practice of any virtue varies according to the state of perfection of the individual Christian. This is very evident in the case of prudence, which is the virtue of maturity, and hence is usually deficient in the young, due to lack of experience and the tendency to be motivated by emotions or sentiments rather than governed by reason. There are, however, certain basic practices that can be utilized for the cultivation of prudence.
