Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior
(This was taken from the website of Humanists of Utah and was credited to George Washington. It’s worthy of attention.)
-Associate yourself with persons of good character. It is better to be alone than in bad company.
-Think before you speak.
-Accept corrections thankfully.
-Be not obstinate in supporting your own opinion.
-Do not repeat news if you know not the truth thereof.
-Speak not evil of the absent.
-Do not reprove or correct another in anger.
-Do not curse or revile anyone.
-Let your conversation be without malice or envy.
-Yield the place in front of the fire to the latest comer.
-Jog not the desk on which another reads or writes.
-Speak not injurious words either in jest or in earnest. Scoff at none although they give occasion.
-In disputes, give liberty to each one to present his opinion.
-Be attentive when others speak.
-Always submit your judgments to others with modesty.
-Do not undertake to teach your equal in an art in which he is qualified.
-A man should not preen himself about his achievements, his wit, his virtue, and much less about his wealth.
-When a man does the best he can, yet succeeds not, do not blame him.
-Do not express joy before one who is sick or in pain.
-If anyone comes to speak to you while you are sitting, stand up, even though you may consider him your inferior.
-Show a good example, particularly before the less experienced.
-Do not give advice unless you are asked.
-Be not curious to know the affairs of others.
