FATHER KNOWS BEST: GEORGE WASHINGTON'S RULES OF CIVILITY
Are you tired of being a regular Joe or Jane in today's society? Do you want to stand out and be remembered for your manners and etiquette? Well, look no further than the one and only George Washington, the first president of the United States and a master of civility.
Yes, you heard that right. George Washington was not only a brilliant leader and a brave soldier, but he was also a gentleman who followed a set of 110 rules that he called "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation." And let me tell you, some of these rules are so outdated and hilarious that they will make you wonder how Washington ever managed to follow them.
But fear not, my fellow modern citizens. We can still learn a thing or two from good ol' George. Let's take a look at some of his rules and see how we can apply them to our modern society.
Rule 1: Every Action done in Company, ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are Present.
This rule is still important today. We should always be respectful to the people we meet, even if we don't know them very well. But let's take it a step further and show them some love. Give them a high-five, a fist bump, or even a dab. Make them feel welcome and appreciated in a way that speaks to our modern culture.
Rule 2: When you Speak to one, turn your Eyes on him, as well as your Face.
In today's world of constant distractions, this rule is harder to follow. It's tempting to check our phones or look around when we are talking to someone. But let's try to resist that urge and give them our full attention. Let's look them in the eye and show them that we care about what they are saying. And if we do need to check our phone, let's be honest and say, "Sorry, I just got a notification. Let me check this real quick and then I'm all yours."
Rule 3: Be not forward, but friendly and courteous; the first to salute, hear and answer, & be not pensive when it's a time to converse.
This rule encourages us to be friendly and polite. Let's take it up a notch and be the life of the party. Let's be the first to start a dance party, the first to tell a joke, and the first to offer a round of shots. Let's show people that we are fun and outgoing and not afraid to let loose.
Rule 4: In the Company of others, put not your Hands to any Part of your Body, not usually discovered.
This rule is about body language. Let's try to be aware of our body language and avoid any gestures that might make us look nervous or uncomfortable. But let's also remember that body language can be a powerful tool. Let's use it to our advantage. Let's strike a pose, do a little dance, or even a dab to show people that we are confident and in charge.
Rule 5: Be no Talker, but a good Hearer; and rather ask Questions, than make assertions.
This rule encourages us to be good listeners. Let's take it to the next level and be great listeners. Let's ask questions, show interest, and really try to understand what the other person is saying. And if we do have something to say, let's say it with a meme or a GIF that perfectly captures our thoughts.
Rule 6: Speak not in yawning, but put your handkerchief or hand before your face and turn aside.
Let's be real, nobody wants to see us yawn. But if we do feel a yawn coming on, let's do it in style. Let's put on a fake mustache or a pair of sunglasses and yawn like a boss. And if we see someone else yawning, let's join in and make it a group activity.
Rule 7: When you cough, sneeze, sigh, or laugh, do it not loud, but privately; and speak not in your yawning, but put your handkerchief or hand before your face and turn aside.
This rule is similar to the previous one. Let's try to be courteous and considerate of others when we are experiencing bodily functions. But let's also remember that laughter is contagious. Let's laugh loud and proud, and spread some happiness in the world.
Rule 8: When you eat, be not greedy, neither lick your Fingers, nor talk with your Mouth full; cut your Meat with a Knife, and not with your Fingers.
This rule is a reminder to be polite and considerate when we are eating. Let's try to avoid making a mess, and let's not talk with our mouths full. But let's also remember that food is meant to be enjoyed. Let's savor every bite, and let's not be afraid to lick our fingers or even use our hands if the situation calls for it. And if we do make a mess, let's clean it up with a meme or a funny comment.
Rule 9: Be neat and cleanly in your Dress; Apparel; and Furniture; but not foppish.
Let's try to look our best, whether it's in our dress, our appearance, or even our furniture. But let's also remember that it's not just about how we look, it's about how we feel. Let's be comfortable in our own skin, and let's not be afraid to show off our unique style. And if someone else is rocking a bold outfit or a funky piece of furniture, let's give them a shoutout and some love.
In conclusion, George Washington may have lived in a different time, but his rules of civility still hold some value in our modern society. Let's take his advice and be respectful, courteous, and considerate of others. But let's also have some fun and show off our unique personalities. Who knows, maybe one day we'll be known as the George Washingtons of our time.
The Rules of Civility · George Washington's Mount Vernon https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/rules-of-civility/
110 rules of Civility & Decent Behavior | Classical ConversationsClassical Conversations https://classicalconversations.com/blog/110-rules-of-civility-decent-behavior/
