A few years ago, I began to question whether or not I was living my life as graciously as I should. I struggled with myself and realised that I was lacking in guidance. I thought that I always conducted myself as a gentleman. And, was I wrong...dead wrong. The last time I had such impeccable manners was nearly twenty years earlier when serving in the U.S. Navy. (And, even then I was a rogue when the uniform came off. )
To get back on track I bought this little book, Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior...and Other Important Writings. George Washington used these "rules" his entire life. The 110 "rules" were a writing assignment for Washington sometime before he was 16. But, the rules are actually based on a much older work, Bienseance de la Conversation entre les Hommes (Decency of Conversation among Men) written by Jesuit scholars in the late 16th century. The book goes into other translations, moves across Europe, and then lands itself finally into the hands of a young George Washington in Colonial Virginia.
Upon my first reading, I thought it to be a little difficult to understand (having to translate from 17th century composition). Some of the maxims are silly, some are just plain common sense. However, I have learned that even small mistakes can make for a disaster. I'm finally back on track and try to live my life as graciously as I can with little social awkwardness. I recommend this...not only as an etiquette guide, but as a guide to improve a full and healthy life.
And if it worked for Washington, who is said to have had an incredibly short fuse, it can work for anyone willing to learn. I'll probably start a project including the 110 "rules" and how I butcher these from time to time...I try, but nobody is perfect.
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