On this President’s Day, it seems appropriate to acknowledge George Washington, at the age of 16, copied a set of rules on manners composed by the French Jesuits in 1595 for a lesson in penmanship. Today, these rules are published in the Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior In Company and Conversation by George Washington.
Some of these rules seem absurd and outdated in today’s society, but a few still hold true. Here are a few examples taken from a total of 110.
4) In the presence of others, sing not to yourself with a humming noise, nor drum with your fingers or feet.
10) When you sit down, keep your feet firm and even, without putting one on the other or crossing them.
38) In visiting the sick, do not presently play the physician if you be not knowing therein.
82) Undertake not what you cannot perform, but be careful to keep your promise.
109) Let your recreations be manful, not sinful.
Happy Birthday George!