The Dignity of Washington
George Washington transcribed 110 Rules of Civility & Decent Behaviour In Company and Conversation when he was 16 years old. At the time, he was not alone in his interest in dignity. He was of an age where society cared a great deal about common decency and respect.
Some rules were so straightforward they were funny.
107th If others talk at Table be attentive but talk not with Meat in your Mouth.
101st Rince not your Mouth in the Presence of Others.
Others, deep.
109th Let your Recreations be Manfull not Sinfull.
There were puzzling ones.
92d Take no Salt or cut Bread with your Knife Greasy.
And eternal truths.
110th Labour to keep alive in your Breast that Little Spark of Celestial fire Called Conscience.
Our society has lost these rules, or maybe just never learned them. In doing so, it has lost its dignity.
Here’s is a link to all 110 rules. Enjoy them. It’s been a reminder to me to respect my dignity and that of others.
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July 10th, 2009 at 9:44 am
That is so on point. I would love to instill those values in our kids or at least have them write them as standards! :)
July 10th, 2009 at 10:33 am
Haha. Lia would get through rule number 3 and then dramatically say she’s going to die if she has to finish all of them. Singh would diligently copy each rule in a different color if someone promised to pay her $50. Kylie would say, ‘You don’t do these, so why should I.’