How many times have you said or heard, “Things aren’t like they used to be” or “My how times have changed?” These are common sentiments that aren’t untrue. Life has and will continue to change, but certain principles would serve society well if we maintained them. Young George Washington had the right idea when he compiled “The Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior.” These are manners that go further than saying “Please” and “Thank you.” There are 110 of them. Rules 1, 56, and 110 are a few of my favorites. https://www.mountvernon.org/george-washington/rules-of-civility?page=0. Written over two hundred and fifty years ago, yet they’re still applicable. They show that manners are timeless no matter how much times have changed.
Basic ideas include not celebrating the misfortune of an enemy (#22) or taking your time to believe the truth of the news you hear (#50) will never be out of fashion. Each of us has the choice to hold ourselves to a higher standard. The point isn’t to be better than your neighbor but to be a better neighbor. Society has become lackadaisical by letting manners go by the wayside. Washington suggests that we excuse ourselves when necessary before reading in front of others, as it is rude (#18). Reading in front of others isn’t really the issue currently. Nowadays, society is guilty of staring at devices instead of paying attention to one another. Common courtesy signifies respect for self and others.
Applying the “Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior” will never be out of place. I’m not suggesting we behave like a white man in a wig from the 18th century, but we can all use a refresher on decent behavior.
