Rules To Live By

Lacking almost totally in America of the 1990's is a code for the conduct of the affairs of men, but it was not always so. In times past, men lived and died by norms of behavior that guided their lives and actions. The advantage of one having rules to live by is that when faced with a decision there is a reference point from which to draw information about what a possible correct course of action should be. Below are some norms of behavior long obeyed by thinking men and are some I have strived ( not always successfully) to live by.

1. In all that you do, consider its benefit or harm to yourself, your children and your people.

2. All that you do will return to you, sooner or later, for good or ill. Thus strive to always do good unto others or at least strive to be just.

3. To thine own self be true. Be honest with yourself and with others.

4. Give your word but sparingly and then move heaven and earth to abide by it once given.

5. To keep ones head is a virtue, the anger of a moment can play havoc for years.

6. Know which battles to fight and which to avoid. Live today to fight tomorrow.

7. Courage and honor endure. Their echoes remain when all else has vanished.

8. Pledge friendship only to those who are worthy.

9. Do your best or do nothing.

10. Love and care for your family always.

11. Laws of the land are to be obeyed so long as they were chosen with wisdom and the good of the people in mind.

12. Your children are the promise of the future. Don't break a promise.

13. Live in harmony as best you can with the natural order of the world.

14. Seeking wisdom is a virtue. Love truth, honor, courage, and loyalty.

15. Be prepared for the future. It will be upon you tomorrow.

16. Embrace life and you will live.

* See Proverbs in the Bible for a more exhaustive code.